Tanzania has significantly reduced maternal mortality, achieving an 80% decline over seven years. The maternal mortality rate dropped from 556 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2016 to 104 per 100,000 in 2022. This achievement is attributed to enhanced healthcare services, political commitment, expanded Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) facilities, improved referral networks, and strengthened maternal health surveillance.
President Samia Suluhu Hassan highlighted the country’s success, stating, “Tanzania has made remarkable progress in public health, particularly in reducing maternal and child mortality.”
Despite Africa accounting for 69% of global maternal deaths in 2020, access to sexual and reproductive healthcare in sub-Saharan Africa remains low at 28%. Major causes of maternal mortality include hemorrhage, infections, and pregnancy-related high blood pressure. While some African nations have made progress, maternal mortality increased in 17 countries between 2017 and 2020. To meet the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of reducing maternal deaths to 70 per 100,000 live births by 2030, the annual decline must exceed 20%. Currently, Africa’s maternal mortality rate stands at 542 per 100,000—far above the global average of 221 per 100,000.
Tanzania’s approach has been recognized as a model for other African nations. In August 2024, the country presented its maternal health strategies at a leadership training session organized by Africa CDC in Addis Ababa. Delegates from Zambia, Lesotho, Egypt, Uganda, Chad, DR Congo, Guinea, The Gambia, South Sudan, Somalia, and Eswatini later visited Tanzania’s capital, Dodoma, for a learning exchange from December 3-7, 2024.
Africa CDC has played a key role in reproductive health interventions. Its Reproductive Health Unit, established in 2021, developed the 2022-2026 Reproductive Health Strategic Priorities to fast-track the Maputo Plan of Action (2016-2030). The initiative aims to reduce maternal mortality through improved adolescent reproductive health, maternal and newborn care, cancer prevention, gender-based violence reduction, and safe abortion services.
Training healthcare professionals in Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) began in December 2023, targeting 25 African nations with the highest maternal mortality rates. To ensure sustainability, Africa CDC transitioned from relying on costly external consultants to training local healthcare workers as instructors.
Tanzania’s strategies included increasing EmONC centers from 106 in 2014 to 523 in 2023, exceeding WHO recommendations. Over 10,000 health facilities were constructed, maternal health reviews became standard practice, and a structured referral system was developed. In remote areas, the ‘m-mama’ initiative provided emergency transport via local taxis, linking expectant mothers with essential care. The country’s leadership, including President Hassan, played an active role in ensuring maternal health remained a priority.
Maternal and Perinatal Death Reviews played a vital role in reducing deaths by 35%, with nationwide discussions helping to identify gaps and implement solutions. Skilled mentorship programs also improved healthcare delivery, as senior gynecologists regularly trained doctors in remote regions. The use of WhatsApp for medical consultations further enhanced emergency response, reducing fatalities among high-risk patients.
Health experts and delegates praised Tanzania’s efforts, with South Sudanese public health specialist Loguran Anthony noting that the country’s coordination between national and regional health authorities ensured efficient resource allocation. Inspired by Tanzania’s success, Africa CDC is organizing a second learning exchange in Rwanda, aiming to support more nations in improving maternal healthcare.
With sustained efforts, Tanzania’s progress serves as a blueprint for other African nations striving to reduce maternal deaths and improve overall healthcare accessibility.