Countries worldwide could transform their future by prioritizing maternal health, just as Botswana did, creating lasting economic and social progress.
Birth of a Vision
As global conversations about women's health intensify, one African nation has quietly redefined its approach to maternal care and economic empowerment.
A new country emerged in 1966, and within its first years of independence, Botswana would chart an extraordinary path in healthcare. In a region where maternal health challenges often persist, Botswana created a strategic family planning program that began with a pivotal moment in 1967, when women in Francistown requested access to contraceptives. Their vision transformed national health outcomes, reducing the maternal mortality ratio from 229 deaths per 100,000 live births (1985) to 186 deaths (2020) – a significant achievement in sub-Saharan Africa.
This calculated investment in family planning generated profound economic impacts. Lower fertility rates enabled greater female workforce participation, supporting Botswana's transition from one of the world's poorest nations at independence to an upper-middle-income country. As nations across Africa seek sustainable health solutions, Botswana's methodical, culturally sensitive approach to family planning provides a powerful example of how strategic national policies can create meaningful change.
Since 1970, the country has instituted family planning services, and Botswana has maintained persistent and progressive policy adoption. This. . .
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This is so beautiful and insightful. The writer uses a storytelling method to engage thoroughly while pointing out key issues pertaining to maternal health. There’s a lot to emulate from the maternal health system set up in Botswana. This is really a call to action for the rest of Sub-Saharan Africa and indeed Africa as a whole.
Well done again, Naomi!