Publication: Opportunities for Africa’s Newborns
Under the umbrella of the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH), 9 organizations, 60 authors and over 40 reviewers, drawn from policymakers and programme leaders for MNCH in Africa, have been involved and contributed to this publication. The book provides an overview of the continuum of care through the lifecycle and opportunities to address gaps at all levels - family and community care, outreach services and health care facilities. Case studies are analysed in order to learn the practical steps for phasing interventions, strengthening and integrating service provision, and providing every mother, newborn and child in Africa with essential care. Why was the book written? Each year at least 1.16 million newborn babies die in sub-Saharan Africa — until recently uncounted.This region has the highest risk of newborn deaths and the slowest progress in reducing mortality. Millennium Development Goals for child survival cannot be met without reducing newborn deaths. More than two thirds of these babies could be saved with low cost, low tech interventions, most of which are already in policy but do not reach the poor. Countries are finding that addressing newborn health is a catalyst to strengthening existing maternal and child health packages and more effective integration with other programmes.This publication has grown out of a wide partnership to seize this opportunity and promote investment in Africa’s future.Who is the book for? All those who are committed to accelerating progress to save the lives of mothers, newborns, and children, particularly in Africa — policymakers and programme managers as well as UN agencies, partners and donors. What does the book provide?
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