East Sepik health workers observe International Day of Midwives

More than 50 staff from the East Sepik Provincial Health Authority marked the International Day of Midwives yesterday with an awareness activity in Wewak.

The day, observed every year on May 5, recognises the important role midwives play in caring for mothers, babies, and families.

This year’s theme, “One Million More Midwives,” highlights the global shortage of nearly one million midwives and calls for more investment in the health workforce.

Speaking at the event, Acting CEO and Director Corporate Services Dipson Yehisembi said improving family health is a shared responsibility.

“Health is critical and it is everyone’s responsibility. We want to see better family health, and both men and women must be informed about maternal and newborn health,” he said.

Director of Curative Health Services Dr Julius Plinduo thanked health workers for their ongoing efforts in delivering babies safely and saving lives.

He also stressed the need for more investment in the health workforce.

Director for Curative Nursing Sr Lorraine Batek encouraged male nursing students to take up midwifery.

“Midwifery is not only for women. Men can also play a role in safely delivering babies,” she said.

She also acknowledged two male midwives currently serving at the East Sepik Provincial Specialist Hospital.

As part of the awareness, health workers provided family planning, counselling, and immunisation services to the public in Wewak.