Programme spends K3bn on maternal health
A government initiative funded by Germany and Royal Norwegian governments through KfW has spent almost K3 billion in reducing maternal and newborn illnesses and deaths in Dedza, Ntcheu and Mchinji districts.
Speaking in an interview recently, Results-Based Financing for Maternal and Newborn Health (RBF4MNH) deputy director Reagan Kaluluma said since 2012, the programme has constructed 14 waiting shelters replete with beds and mattresses, four high dependency units and 18 gas-powered sterilisers, among others.
“Result-Based Financing is a programme that rewards delivery of one or more outputs by one or more incentives, financial or otherwise, upon verification that agreed-upon results have actually been delivered,” Kaluluma said.
He said RBF4MNH has fitted two health facilities with new roofs, installed water in four health facilities, extended six maternity sections and rehabilitated out-patient department sections in five hospitals.
Bhima Mkutumula, Ntcheu RBF4MNH coordinator, said the programme has seen an increase in numbers of better quality institutional deliveries in targeted facilities.
“This has been achieved through investment in infrastructure and equipment, use of incentives to strengthen systems and motivate staff and support poor women to stay the first 48 hours at the hospital after delivery,” Mkutumula said.
RBF4MNH has spent K849 million on infrastructure, K151 million procuring medical equipment, K806 million on staff bonuses, K70 million initial facility support and K687 million conditional cash transfer to poor pregnant women and is expected to spend over K2 billion in 2018. n
