By Text to Change

Maternal mortality is still a major problem in Uganda. Only 41.9% of births is attended by skilled health staff, resulting in 440 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births (For example in the Netherlands this is only 13). In 2010 this led to 4,700 maternal deaths.
These deaths can be easily prevented when the right information is delivered to the right people.

What is the project about?
UNHCO together with Cordaid, IICD and TTC recently started a campaign aiming at reducing maternal mortality. This mobile phone-based program was set up to reach 3000 people in three districts in Uganda and is about collecting data and obtaining and responding to feedback. Village Health Team members (VHT’s) were trained to enrol community members in the text messaging platform. Once the community members are registered they receive messages with information to raise awareness on different aspects of maternal health, for example danger signs during pregnancy, nutrition and patients’ rights. Registered mothers also receive periodic reminders to have antenatal check-ups. Another aspect of the campaign is that community members receive health questions via SMS on client satisfaction. Read more...