Cameroon launches five-year plan to improve maternal health

CAMEROON – Cameroon is set to launch a five-year National Strategy on Reproductive, Maternal, Child, Adolescent, and Nutrition Health (RMNCAH-Nut) on March 13, 2025.

This plan aims to improve maternal healthcare services, enhance data collection, strengthen policy implementation, and foster better coordination among stakeholders.

The strategy aligns with global health priorities, particularly Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3 on health and well-being.

Developed with support from Africa CDC and its partners, the RMNCAH-Nut strategy addresses the high maternal and infant mortality rates in Cameroon.

In 2020, an estimated 438 women per 100,000 live births died from pregnancy-related complications, according to the World Bank’s Gender Data Portal.

While maternal mortality declined slightly to 406 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2021, these figures remain concerning.

The strategy focuses on several key areas:

• Strengthening Maternal Healthcare Services: Improving the quality and accessibility of care for expectant mothers to ensure safer pregnancies and deliveries.
• Improving Data Collection: Enhancing the accuracy and reliability of health data to inform better decision-making and resource allocation.
• Enhancing Policy Implementation: Ensuring that health policies are effectively put into practice to achieve desired health outcomes.
• Fostering Better Coordination Among Stakeholders: Promoting collaboration among government agencies, healthcare providers, and communities to create a unified approach to maternal health.

By addressing these areas, Cameroon aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes for women and children.

The RMNCAH-Nut strategy represents a significant step towards achieving these goals and aligns with the country’s commitment to global health initiatives.

“Part of Africa CDC’s mandate is to support countries in developing strategic health plans that align with continental priorities. Cameroon is among the first to finalize its strategy, and this will serve as a model for other African nations.

We are now preparing for the official launch and mobilizing resources for effective implementation,” explained Fidel Gabo, Head of the Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health Division at Africa CDC.