Written by: The Saving Moses Team
In the heart of northeastern Congo, where conflict and instability are part of daily life, giving birth can be a matter of life and death for both mother and baby. The region faces staggering challenges — from widespread malnutrition and infectious diseases to the constant threat of violence. But amid these difficulties, BirthAid offers hope to mothers and their babies.
The Harsh Reality of Birth in Conflict Zones
Rebekah, a gynecologist at our clinic in eastern Congo, describes the maternity ward as both a place of hope and heartbreak. Outside of the secure and sterile environment of the clinic, countless babies face the harsh reality of not surviving or entering the world without taking their first breath. While many mothers successfully deliver healthy babies within the clinic, complications are common. The hospital sees about 600 high-risk deliveries a year, with half requiring cesarean sections. Resources are scarce — electricity is unreliable, often forcing midwives to deliver babies by flashlight or the glow of a cell phone.
Malaria, HIV, and syphilis are rampant, posing serious risks to both mothers and newborns. Malnutrition is another pressing issue, with over 20% of pregnant women in the region suffering from it. These women are more likely to give birth prematurely to underweight or malnourished babies.
What BirthAid Is Doing to Help
Despite these overwhelming challenges, BirthAid makes a tangible difference. We provide trained birth attendants, prenatal care, and pediatric check-ups, ensuring mothers and babies receive the medical attention they desperately need. BirthAid also focuses on community education, teaches safe childbirth practices, and provides breastfeeding support in local languages to ensure understanding and accessibility.
One of the most impactful BirthAid initiatives is the new maternal nutrition program. By identifying and supporting malnourished pregnant women, the team is working to improve birth outcomes before babies even arrive. This proactive approach is not just saving lives — it’s giving babies a healthier start and mothers the strength they need to bring their little ones into the world and care for them.
The Impact of Your Support
As one team member reflected, “Providing nutrition to moms and babies is changing lives in ways we don’t even fully appreciate. We see the physical transformations, but the deeper impact — on how these children will grow, learn, and thrive — is immeasurable.” Thank you! Your support makes this lifesaving work possible. Together, we’re not just fighting neonatal mortality; we’re giving mothers and babies in the world’s most vulnerable places a chance at a brighter future.
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The Saving Moses Team
