Maternal Mortality Rate in Tigray, Ethiopia Increases Fivefold Amid Conflict

The maternal mortality rate in the Tigray region of Ethiopia has seen a staggering fivefold increase since the onset of the conflict, according to recent reports. The rate has risen from less than 200 to a shocking 840 deaths per 100,000 births, primarily due to the lack of access to essential prenatal care and skilled deliveries in the region.

The bishop of the Catholic Eparchy of Adigrat, which covers the Tigray region, has witnessed firsthand the unspeakable suffering and death" of the people in the area. The conflict has displaced millions and forced hundreds of thousands to seek refuge in neighboring regions and countries.

Why this matters: The alarming increase in maternal mortality in Tigray highlights the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on the health and well-being of women and their families. The situation emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and the restoration of essential healthcare services in the region.

The bishop has made an urgent appeal for the implementation of the November 2022 peace agreement, which aims to end the two-year conflict and alleviate the suffering of the people in Tigray and neighboring regions. The agreement is seen as a critical step towards restoring stability and ensuring that women have access to the life-saving care they need during pregnancy and childbirth.

The dire situation in Tigray serves as a sobering reminder of the far-reaching consequences of armed conflict on the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. "The unspeakable suffering and death witnessed in the region is a tragedy that demands immediate action and support from the international community," the bishop emphasized, calling for a swift resolution to the conflict and the restoration of essential services to the affected areas.

Key Takeaways

• Maternal mortality in Tigray, Ethiopia has increased 5-fold since conflict began.
• Lack of access to prenatal care and skilled deliveries is the primary cause.
• Millions displaced, hundreds of thousands seek refuge due to ongoing conflict.
• Bishop appeals for implementation of Nov 2022 peace agreement to restore stability.
• Conflict's impact on vulnerable populations demands urgent international action.