A crucial step to improve maternal health

5 May 2011 - (Juba): Southern Sudan still records some of the worst health indicators in the world. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) the maternal mortality rate in the soon-to-be independent region stands at 2,054 deaths for every 100,000 live births.

Watch a music video about maternal health in Southern Sudan: \'Mata Cure\' by Lost BoyEvery day throughout the country, nurses and midwives are working to improve maternal health care. The newly launched Nurses and Midwives Association aims to strengthen their capacity to reduce maternal mortality.

The formation of the association was supported by the Government of Southern Sudan (GoSS) Ministry of Health in collaboration with UNFPA and the International Confederation of Midwives.

Marvis Birungi reports from Juba: