Egypt could cut maternal deaths, save $179m with midwifery scale-up plan

Egypt could sharply reduce maternal and newborn deaths while saving up to $179 million annually by expanding midwifery services, according to a feasibility study discussed by health officials on Thursday.

Egypt’s Deputy Health Minister Abla El-Alfy reviewed the findings during talks with officials from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) on the sidelines of the International Maternal Newborn Health Conference (IMNHC) 2026 in Nairobi. The discussions also covered plans to scale up Egypt’s midwifery programme.

The study found that increasing midwifery coverage by 25 per cent could cut neonatal mortality by 25.8 per cent, fetal deaths by 15.9 per cent, and maternal mortality by 13.9 per cent. It could also prevent about 860,000 unplanned pregnancies between 2026 and 2030, while reducing unnecessary cesarean sections by 50 per cent.

The results highlight the potential for targeted healthcare investment to improve outcomes and reduce costs, as Egypt works to strengthen maternal and newborn services in partnership with international organisations.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English