Stemming alarming Infant & Maternal deaths in Ngorongoro | ACORD Tanzania

Maternal and Infant Mortality rates in Ngorongoro District, Arusha Region, are still high, well above the national average, according to a recent report by a non-governmental organisation,  ACORD.

Available statistics indicate that 115 out of 1,000 children born die before reaching the age of five while 600 out of 100,000 expectant mothers succumb due to ailments associated with delivery.

Nationally, the infant mortality rate has dropped to 81 out of 1,000, while the maternal mortality rate has plummeted to 133 for each 100,000 women who deliver.

ACORD, in collaboration with a local non-governmental organisation operating in Ngorongoro , Angonet, has been conducting a sensitisation programme on vaccination for women and young children.

The focus of the programme has been on ensuring safe delivery for expectant women, said an official of ACORD, Mr Lokola Ndibalema, following a recent vaccination exercise.

The official added: “ From June this year, we have teamed up with Ngonet to carry out vaccination of children as well as provide health services to pregnant women in all wards in Ngorongoro.”

The vaccination campaign was launched by the Ngorongoro District Commissioner, Mr Elias Wawa-Lali, and involved sensitisation of the community and donation of the requisite  equipment to traditional birth attendants who are responsible for over 80 per cent of deliveries in the area.

In his remarks, the DC called on other NGOs operating in Ngorongoro to emulate efforts being made by ACORD and Ngonet in health delivery services to rural communities in the area.

Originally Published on The Citizen.

  • acord
  • children
  • health
  • tanzania
  • women