Nakonde health department targets zero maternal deaths

The Department of Health Services in Nakonde District has restated its commitment to eliminating all preventable maternal deaths across the district. The renewed emphasis follows an incident at Nakonde Urban Clinic where a pregnant woman with severe hypertension and edema initially declined referral to the district hospital during a routine antenatal visit. The patient was later counseled alongside her husband and subsequently agreed to transfer to the district hospital for specialised care.

Nakonde Urban Clinic In-Charge Bievenue Kalambote stressed the importance of adhering to medical advice given during pregnancy. “When expectant mothers ignore professional guidance, they expose themselves and their unborn babies to serious complications that can be avoided,” Mr Kalambote said. Mr Kalambote added that conditions such as high blood pressure and swelling were warning signs that required immediate clinical assessment and treatment.

“Dangers in pregnancy can escalate quickly if left unmanaged, and timely intervention saves lives,” Mr Kalambote said. He reaffirmed that achieving zero maternal mortality remained the guiding objective for all maternal and neonatal health services in the district. And Nakonde Urban Clinic Nursing Officer Emily Chokolo has called on male partners to expectant women to participate actively in maternal health decisions.

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Ms Chokolo noted that male involvement improves adherence to treatment plans and reduces delays in seeking emergency care. “Men must accompany their spouses to antenatal visits, understand the risks, and support medical recommendations without hesitation,” Ms Chokolo said.

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