Zomba District has recorded a decline in institutional maternal deaths from three between January and August 2025 to two during the same period in 2026.
Director of Health and Social Services for Zomba, Dr Alinafe Kalanga Mjojo, confirmed the development, attributing the improvement to increased numbers of skilled health workers, improved availability of medicines and medical supplies, and better referral systems.
Zomba District Nursing Management Officer Mtchiyeni Joseph Zulu said the deaths recorded in 2025 occurred at Pirimiti Hospital, St Luke’s Hospital and Chamba Health Centre, while in 2026, Pirimiti and St Luke’s hospitals each recorded one death.
Zulu said other interventions include weekend antenatal care and family planning services, ultrasound services at selected maternity facilities, and the deployment of Clinical Medical Assistants to hard-to-reach health posts.
He added that the district had established nursing and midwifery escort teams in ambulances to ensure that referred mothers continue receiving appropriate care at higher-level facilities.
The district has also introduced safe motherhood ambassadors under Senior Chief Chikowi and trained Male Champions to encourage men’s involvement in maternal healthcare.
