Midwives play a critical role towards averting preventable maternal and newborn deaths, particularly during pandemics and other humanitarian situations. Moses’ story showcases one of many inspiring efforts by frontline health workers, who despite being at risk themselves, continue to save lives in some of the most hard to reach communities.

As a child, I became critically ill. While receiving treatment at a local health centre in my village, I drew inspiration from the health staff who dedicated their time to caring for me. Today, I am living that dream by using my skills to save lives in rural communities of Sioma District as a midwife - Moses Nkosi

Moses Nkosi was born and raised in rural Western Province of Zambia, in a family of seven. Despite the many social and economic challenges he faced growing up, he remained determined to pursue his ambition of building a career in the health sector. "As a child, I became critically ill. While receiving treatment at a local health centre in my village, I drew inspiration from the health staff who dedicated their time to caring for me. Today, I am living that dream by using my skills to save lives in rural communities of Sioma District as a midwife" says Moses with a smile on his face.

During a UNFPA humanitarian mission to Sioma District of Western Province, Moses shared his experience on how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected health service delivery for mothers and newborns in his duty station that covers a population of over 7,000.

Noting the key challenges presented by COVID-19, Moses dedicated time, going beyond the call of duty to undertake community sensitization and engagements with key stakeholders and traditional leaders, in addition to onsite work at the health facility.

“I have had several meetings with traditional leaders to lobby for their support in ensuring that no woman delivers at home. In my monthly outreach, I have also dedicated time to share information with women on the importance of accessing antenatal care and skilled delivery among others, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.” says Moses.

As part of the UN Zambia joint efforts to prevent and respond to COVID-19, UNFPA continues to provide technical and financial support for the retention of midwives deployed to areas critically affected by lack of staff to ensure continuity of maternal health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Further, UNFPA with funding from the United Kingdom Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) continues to support efforts to advance maternal and newborn health outcomes in Western Province through the FP-ASRH programme, including through the procurement and distribution of assorted Emergency, Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) equipment in the Province.