Overview

The Saving Mothers Giving Life (SMGL) initiative was implemented in Cross River state to improve facility services related to maternal and neonatal health (MNH) by addressing the three delays associated with maternal and newborn deaths. The initiative also provided comprehensive family planning services, with a focus on provision of long-acting reversible contraceptives.

Saving Mothers – A Total Market Approach was also implemented in Cross River over the same period to increase access to, and quality of, comprehensive MNH. The project complemented the SMGL Initiative by engaging private, for-profit health facilities (PFPs) that support women throughout pregnancy and delivery; strengthening their capacity to attain the MNH goals.

Project Activities

• Scaled up Emergency Obstetrics and Neonatal Care (EmONC) services to 108 public, private, and faith-based health facilities in the state.
• Worked with community-based organizations and ward development committees to increase demand for MNH services.
• Supported a community-led emergency transport system for women who required emergency services.
• Worked with the Cross River state Ministry of Health to provide better coordination and regulation of the private and informal sector through regular and structured supervision and development of a regulatory and policy framework for traditional birth attendants.