AUTHORITIES in Magu District, Mwanza Region have identified several factors contributing maternal and new-born deaths in the area, including the use of traditional medicines, teenage pregnancy and unsafe abortions.

The factors were highlighted following a report revealing that 71 maternal and new-born deaths occurred between January and November 2024.

Mussa Itembe, Magu District acting public health education coordinator shared the information on Sunday here during a seminar on family planning and maternal health provided to ward councillors and government staff by the Humanity Amplify Organisation (HAO).

The deaths included five mothers, 24 new-borns who died during childbirth, 20 infants aged zero to seven days, and 22 stillbirths.

Itembe explained that the use of traditional medicines to hasten labour, a common practice in the area, has contributed to maternal fatalities.

Additionally, early pregnancies among young girls and the practice of unsafe abortions have been significant risk factors leading to deaths.

 The seminar focused on raising awareness of the issues and encouraging the use of modern, safe maternal healthcare practices.

Although the number of deaths in 2024 is a decrease from the 88 reported in 2023, the district still faces a high mortality rate, particularly compared to 120 deaths recorded in the 2021/2022 period.

Itembe explained that the district has been actively working to reduce these deaths by raising awareness on family planning and promoting safe childbirth practices.

The district expects to see improvements in the coming year as efforts to educate the community about proper maternal healthcare and family planning services at local clinics continue.

Maryciana Mayengela, Magu District social welfare officer, highlighted the dangers of using traditional medicines to hasten labour, a practice that has contributed to some maternal deaths.

She urged pregnant women to avoid these practices and seek proper medical care when experiencing labour.

Magu District Executive Director, Mohamed Ramadhani, called on local government officials and councillors to increase awareness about the importance of family planning and prenatal care.

 Despite ongoing efforts, the response rate from the community remains low.

He said the district will continue to implement efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality by strengthening public health education and improving access to safe healthcare services.

Restistuta Jacob, HAO monitoring and evaluation officer noted that the sessions aim to tackle the root causes of maternal and infant deaths, such as child marriage and early pregnancies.

Jacob also emphasised the importance of educating the public about the dangers of gender-based violence and encouraging the reporting of such cases.