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East Africa Frontline News

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December 11.2025

2 Minutes Read

Maternal Health Crisis: Rising Deaths as Free Care Program Ends in Eastern Congo

Maternal health crisis eastern Congo illustrated by women at a clinic.

Rising Maternal Health Crisis in Eastern Congo

The situation in eastern Congo paints a grim picture as mothers grapple with growing fears of maternal mortality amidst the ongoing armed conflict and the abrupt end of a crucial free maternity care program. As Iran Nabua and many expectant mothers cling to hope, the reality of giving birth in a city now under rebel control is fraught with anxiety and uncertainty.

In 'Mothers in eastern Congo fear rising maternal deaths as free care program ends', the discussion highlights the deteriorating maternal health situation in conflict-stricken regions, prompting deeper analysis on the implications and urgent needs for intervention.

Impact of Conflict on Maternal Health Access

The armed conflict has severely disrupted healthcare services, leaving many women unable to access medical facilities. Police actions have blocked pathways essential for travel to hospitals, and rising costs of care have forced many to resort to home births. This regression not only puts mothers at risk but also undermines years of progress made in improving maternal health outcomes.

Decline in Hospital Deliveries

Health workers at local clinics report a stark decline in hospital attendance. Previously thriving programs, which provided free maternity care, led to as many as twenty deliveries a month. Now, the fall in patient numbers suggests that many women feel they have no choice but to give birth at home, a decision that could prove life-threatening without medical assistance.

Urgent Need for Action

The loss of free maternity programs signals an urgent crisis in maternal health—a crisis that deserves immediate attention and response from both local authorities and the international community. As the humanitarian situation becomes increasingly dire, there is a critical imperative to restore maternity services to safeguard the lives of mothers and their newborns.

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Maternal Health Crisis: Rising Deaths as Free Care Program Ends in Eastern Congo

Rising Maternal Health Crisis in Eastern Congo

Impact of Conflict on Maternal Health Access

Decline in Hospital Deliveries

Urgent Need for Action

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