Introduction

FODEO, a non-profit organization based in Simiyu region, Tanzania, participated in the implementation of the Midwives Save Lives (MSL) program as a local NGO with the ability to reach grassroots beneficiaries. The MSL program aimed to reduce maternal and under-five deaths by improving the quality of antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care.

FODEO's Role in the MSL Program

FODEO played a crucial role in the community mobilization component of the MSL program. The organization utilized a variety of strategies to engage and empower communities, including:

• Cultural theater: FODEO organized cultural theater performances to raise awareness about the importance of maternal and newborn health. These performances were designed to be culturally sensitive and engaging, and they helped to break down barriers and stigma associated with healthcare.
• Family-to-family visits: FODEO trained community health workers to conduct family-to-family visits. These visits provided an opportunity for CHWs to provide personalized education and support to pregnant women and their families.
• Clinic training: FODEO worked with healthcare providers to improve their communication and counseling skills. This training helped to ensure that pregnant women and their families received high-quality care and support.
• Interpersonal communication: FODEO promoted interpersonal communication between healthcare providers and pregnant women. This helped to build trust and rapport, and it encouraged women to ask questions and express their concerns.
• Community health worker groups: FODEO established community health worker groups to provide ongoing support and training. These groups provided a platform for CHWs to share experiences and best practices.

Impact of FODEO's Involvement

FODEO's involvement in the MSL program had a significant impact on maternal and newborn health in Simiyu region. The organization's efforts led to:

• Increased utilization of antenatal care services: More pregnant women sought antenatal care, which helped to identify and address potential health risks early on.
• Improved quality of care: Healthcare providers provided higher-quality care to pregnant women and their families. This included providing more comprehensive counseling and support.

• Reduced maternal and newborn mortality: The number of maternal and newborn deaths decreased, indicating an overall improvement in maternal and newborn health.

Conclusion

FODEO's work in the MSL program demonstrates the organization's commitment to improving maternal and newborn health in Tanzania. The organization's community-based approach and its focus on empowering communities were key to the success of the program. As FODEO continues its work in Simiyu region, it is committed to building on the successes of the MSL program and further improving maternal and newborn health outcomes.

FODEO dedicated to expand improving maternal and newborn health in Tanzania, is seeking your generous support to continue implementing its successful Midwives Save Lives (MSL) program in Mara Region. The MSL program has proven to be a powerful tool in reducing maternal and newborn mortality by improving the quality of antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care. FODEO has successfully implemented the MSL program in Simiyu Region, achieving significant improvements in maternal and newborn health outcomes.

Challenges in Expanding MSL to Mara Region

While FODEO is committed to expanding the MSL program to Mara Region, the organization faces financial constraints that hinder its ability to fully implement the program. These constraints limit FODEO's ability to:

• Train community health workers and healthcare providers
• Conduct community mobilization activities
• Provide essential supplies and equipment
• Monitor and evaluate the program's impact

Your Contribution Can Make a Difference

Your generous contribution can help FODEO overcome these challenges and make a real difference in the lives of mothers and newborns in Mara Region. Your support will enable FODEO to:

• Increase the number of trained community health workers and healthcare providers
• Expand community mobilization activities to reach more communities
• Provide essential supplies and equipment to healthcare facilities
• Strengthen the program's monitoring and evaluation system

Together, We Can Save Lives

With your support, FODEO can continue its mission of improving maternal and newborn health in Tanzania. Your contribution will help to ensure that every mother has access to the quality care she needs to give birth safely and that every newborn has the best chance to survive and thrive.

Please donate today to support FODEO's Midwives Save Lives program in Mara Region.

Thank you for your generosity and commitment to improving maternal and newborn health in Tanzania.