Improving Maternal Newborn and Child Health in Complex Contexts in Mali

This project builds on a previous project that supported the Malian Red Cross’ efforts towards the Government of Mali’s plans to reduce maternal and child mortality in the regions of Koulikoro and Sikasso. The delivery of health services in times of stability as well as in times of emergency is critical in Mali where there are significant governance and security challenges and where there are low levels of economic and social development. Project activities include: (1) raising awareness in communities on maternal newborn and child health (MNCH) services available and ways to prevent illness through proper hygiene and sanitation; (2) training professional and community health workers including volunteers in the delivery and promotion of MNCH services; (3) training health staff in improved MNCH delivery covering aspects such as management of service delivery supervision of health workers and procurement of medicines and supplies; (4) training health staff to collect analyse and use administrative MNCH data to plan for improved MNCH service delivery and improved health outcomes; and (5) equipping health facilities with essential supplies and equipment. This project is expected to contribute directly to the improved health of approximately 1.1 million women men adolescents children and newborns in Mali. In addition approximately 3.2 million adults and children are expected to benefit indirectly from this project. This project is implemented through a consortium led by the Canadian Red Cross Society with the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto; and in collaboration with the local partner the Malian Red Cross.

The expected outcomes for this project include: (1) improved delivery of essential health services to mothers pregnant women newborns and children under the age of five throughout stability and emergencies; (2) improved utilization of essential health services and preventative practices by mothers pregnant women newborns and children under the age of five throughout stability and emergencies; and (3) increased use of essential MNCH data by MNCH decision makers.