With support from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Mercy-USA for Aid and Development organized a five-day training for traditional birth attendants (TBAs) in Baidoa’s Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps. The training aimed to strengthen their role as referral agents, helping expectant mothers access safe, professional healthcare services.

In a region where maternal health is often compromised by limited access to medical facilities and reliance on traditional practices, the training equipped 50 participants, including traditional midwives, with critical knowledge about the risks associated with home deliveries. Participants also learned the importance of guiding women to healthcare facilities that offer free antenatal care and safe delivery services.

One participant, Fardowso Mohamed Mayow, shared her personal journey. Formerly a traditional midwife, she stopped assisting with home deliveries after attending several health education sessions. Today, she is an active advocate for encouraging women to seek skilled care.

“I sincerely thank Mercy-USA and UNFPA for this invaluable education. As a former midwife, I am committed to sharing this information with my community and guiding mothers toward safer practices. These initiatives are vital for improving maternal health and protecting the well-being of mothers and children,” Fardowso said.

With continued support from UNFPA, Mercy-USA remains committed to improving maternal and child health outcomes in Baidoa by supporting vulnerable families through reproductive health services, medical care, and the provision of dignity kits in IDP camps.