A new World Health Organization report links rising maternal deaths to conflict-driven displacement, funding gaps, and access barriers in sub-Saharan Africa. This page breaks down what’s driving the risk, which countries are most affected, and what policy changes could help stabilize maternal health in crisis zones. Read on for quick answers to the questions people are asking right now.
Rising maternal mortality in displacement zones is tied to conflict-driven displacement that disrupts access to skilled birth care, prenatal services, and essential supplies. With health facilities strained or destroyed, pregnant people face delays and barriers to safe childbirth. Funding cuts to international programs also reduce the availability of midwives, transport, and emergency obstetric care, compounding risk.
Displacement moves pregnant people away from dependable health networks, often into overcrowded camps or areas with fragile health infrastructure. Limited access to skilled birth attendants and emergency obstetric care increases the likelihood of complications. Funding gaps—such as reduced support from UN agencies and donors—mean fewer trained staff, fewer supplies, and less transport for safe deliveries.
Central African Republic and other displacement-affected areas in sub-Saharan Africa are seeing higher maternal mortality linked to conflict and funding shifts. International aid remains essential to provide midwives, safe spaces for mothers, and transport to care. Despite funding reductions in some programs, relief efforts continue through UN agencies and NGOs focusing on maternal health services, emergency obstetric care, and prenatal screening.
Policy changes that could help include: increasing predictable funding for maternal health services in emergencies; safeguarding and expanding access to skilled birth care even during conflicts; investing in mobile clinics and transportation networks to reach displaced women; ensuring funding supports safe spaces and midwife training; and strengthening health information systems to monitor outcomes and adapt quickly.
Communities can prioritize delivery planning, encourage early prenatal visits, and utilize available safe spaces where skilled birth attendants are present. Caregivers should seek information on emergency obstetric care options, understand warning signs of complications, and advocate for continued access to maternal health services even amid funding shifts.
Maternal health is a key indicator of overall well-being in humanitarian responses. Ensuring access to prenatal care, delivery with skilled birth attendants, and postnatal support for refugees and displaced people is central to protecting families and stabilizing communities in crisis zones. The data highlights gaps that, if addressed, can improve outcomes across the spectrum of humanitarian health services.
Yes, organizations often establish safe spaces and targeted programs to support pregnant women, including access to skilled birth attendants, prenatal checkups, nutrition support, and transportation to care. The effectiveness of these programs depends on sustained funding and coordination with local health systems.
Women are 40 times more likely to die in pregnancy or childbirth in Central African Republic than in the United States, according to the United Nations