In its bid to contribute to clean and safe childbirth, as well as reduce maternal mortality in Nigeria, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has donated 3,700 Mama kits to pregnant women in Borno State.

The UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Busiku, made the announcement on Thursday during the launch of the distribution of Mama kits to 13 Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative Priority local government areas of the state.

According to him, the items became necessary following the prevalence of child birth mortality in the state.

“Borno state has been identified as one of the states in Nigeria that contributes a significant proportion to maternal and Neonatal Mortality. Every day, women face life-threatening risks for bringing new life into the world.

“Putting numbers to it, one woman dies giving birth in every 8 minutes. These are not just numbers, they are mothers, daughters, sisters, friends, compatriots and future leaders lost to preventable causes,” he said.

He further emphasised that the Maternal and Neonatal Mortality Reduction Innovation and Initiative aligns with UNICEF’s core mandate of protecting children and women.

“UNICEF is committed to ensuring that no woman dies giving birth, and every child is given the chance to survive, thrive, and develop into their full potential.

“As part of our efforts, UNICEF has supported them in providing 3,700 Mama kits, that is, easy, pre-packed delivery kits containing essential items for clean and safe childbirth,” he stated.

Francis called on stakeholders, including the government, traditional leaders, civil society, and development partners, to join hands in scaling up the MAMMI intervention.

“Let us remember: every safe birth is a victory, every mother saved is a future secured, and every newborn alive is a promise kept,” he added.