Birthing Kits - providing a clean and safe birth

BKFA continues to provide funding for its training programs in Ethiopia and Congo, demonstrating its commitment to enhancing healthcare in these regions. Through sustained efforts, BKFA has contributed a total of $39,795 to Mission Health Care and Development (MHCD) and $45,555 to the Afar Pastoralist Development Association (APDA) in 2022-23. MHCD's impact is centered on the implementation of the "Delivery Sets for Safer Childbirth" initiative in South Kivu, DR Congo, and they have worked with BKFA since 2008. Simultaneously, APDA has been dedicated to the advancement of reproductive, maternal, and newborn health in Dullass, located within the Afar Region, which has been ongoing since 2009.

MHCD's program has experienced great engagement from traditional midwives, who actively collaborated to assess the suitability of locally sourced items for childbirth. Informed decision-making was facilitated by research conducted by Uvira Community University (UVC). As a result of these efforts, each midwife was equipped with 200 CBKs, complemented by additional medical gloves. This direct intervention translated to tangible benefits for approximately 10,000 expectant women and newborns. Furthermore, the project extended its reach through the support of 50 Community Health Workers, who provided assistance to over 2,700 birthing women lacking access to these essential kits. The project's ripple effect was profound, touching the lives of nearly 30,000 individuals, encompassing vulnerable women's families, expectant mothers' relatives, and villagers. The initiative left an incredible positive mark on many aspects of these communities' lives. A notable impact was observed in cleaner birthing environments for over 10,000 newborns, while approximately 200 children gained access to education. A remarkable outcome emerged as well, with the assembly of 10,000 kits, enabling traditional midwives to launch microfinance projects that actively counter poverty.

On the APDA front, the training program remains ongoing. Madina’s story provides an update of the ongoing work in Afar region. Approximately three months ago, Madina faced a challenging situation when she gave birth to quadruplets in Kilaalu, a remote location situated three hours away from the nearest asphalt road. Tragically, the first newborn did not survive the home birth. However, Madina's story takes a turn towards hope and resilience. 

With swift action, her husband and a local leader mobilised resources to secure transportation for Madina's journey to APDA's Barbara May Maternity Hospital in Mille. This remarkable feat involved a grueling seven-hour drive over challenging terrain. However, it was a critical step in ensuring the well-being of Madina and her remaining three sons.

Upon arrival at the hospital, Madina received the necessary medical attention and underwent a cesarean section. This procedure resulted in the successful delivery of her three precious boys, each with varying weights: 1.9 kg, 1.6kg, and 1.4 kg. Thanks to the dedication of the medical staff and the resilience of Madina and her family, the boys are steadily growing and thriving. Their story is a testament to the positive impact of the APDA program, which continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families in the Afar region.

This signifies BKFA's sustained commitment to fostering progress and development in the Afar region.