Despite the dedication of midwives and progress made over the years, maternal and neonatal mortality remain a serious challenge in the country.

This was revealed at the celebration of the International Day of the Midwife, which took place in Windhoek.

The experts at the celebration noted that Namibia's maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain critical, with estimates of 139 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births and 24 neonatal deaths per thousand live births. 

Therefore, there is an urgent need to address the preventable causes of death among women and newborns. 

Midwives were highlighted as crucial to maternal and newborn health, playing a vital role in providing comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, labour, delivery, and the postpartum period. 

The theme for this year, "Investing in Midwifery", is a call to action. It highlights that when midwives are educated, regulated, and supported by a functional health system, they can provide sufficient essential maternal and newborn care.