**Midwifery training: a bridge to reducing maternal mortality in the DRC**
The retraining of a nurse in Tshuapa province, Democratic Republic of Congo, as a midwife is a commendable initiative to strengthen essential medical skills to protect the lives of mothers and newborns. At the heart of this transition is a meaningful partnership between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the DRC Ministry of Higher Education, highlighting the critical importance of continuing education in maternal health.
Gerda Botay’s poignant story of her transition from nurse to midwife highlights the reality of rural areas where the dire shortage of qualified professionals has dramatic consequences for the health of pregnant women. Her commitment to returning to her community to offer her new midwifery skills reveals a deep awareness of the public health challenges facing vulnerable populations.
The focus on preventing postpartum complications, such as hemorrhage, illustrates the relevance of the lessons learned during her 18-month intensive training at the Higher Institute of Medical Techniques (ISTM) in Kinshasa. The innovative technologies and updated medical protocols taught during this retraining program aim to improve clinical practices and save lives.
By advocating for the expansion of the midwifery retraining program in Higher Institutes of Medical Techniques across the country, Alexis Nzee embodies the vision of a more inclusive and efficient health system. The ultimate goal is to significantly reduce the maternal mortality rate, a major cause of concern in the DRC and in many parts of the world.
Gerda Botay’s inspiring story and the efforts of UNFPA-ESU project partners highlight the importance of investing in the training and development of health professionals, particularly in critical areas such as maternity and reproductive health. By providing nurses with the opportunity to become qualified midwives, this innovative program paves the way for a future where every woman has access to quality care and skilled professionals to support her pregnancy and childbirth.
Ultimately, retraining as a midwife represents more than just a change in professional title for Gerda Botay; it is a promise of hope and change for women in her community and beyond. It is a step toward a future where maternal health is a top priority, and every birth is met with safety, compassion, and medical expertise.