Maternal mortality in Sub-Saharan Africa remains one of the highest globally — up to 100 times higher than in Europe. Every day, women die from preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth.

The reasons are widespread: overburdened health systems, long travel distances to clinics, and high out-of-pocket costs. Care is often fragmented and reactive, with many women receiving only occasional treatment rather than consistent, preventive care throughout their pregnancy. Especially in rural areas, access to timely and reliable support is limited — and education around early warning signs is often lacking.

And yet, many of these deaths could be avoided — with early check-ups, coordinated emergency care, and ongoing affordable medical and emotional support. Making the reduction of maternal mortality a key focus of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 3.1).