Background
Ethiopia has made progress in maternal and newborn health over the past two decades. Maternal mortality fell from 871 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 267 in 2020, and neonatal mortality declined from 39 to 33 deaths per 1,000 live births between 2000 and 2019 (EPHI, 2019; World Bank). Despite these gains, mortality rates remain high. Each year, an estimated 10,000 women die from preventable causes—most commonly postpartum hemorrhage. Around 97,000 newborns also die annually, due to birth asphyxia, prematurity, and infections. Efforts are needed to close these gaps and ensure equitable, quality care for mothers and newborns across Ethiopia.
How we help
Our work supports national efforts to improve maternal and newborn care, strengthening health outcomes for mothers and babies. We collaborate closely with partners, professional associations, and the Ministry of Health to drive sustainable change. By advocating for lifesaving interventions and providing effective training, essential medical devices, and quality‑improvement tools, we help healthcare workers build the skills and confidence needed to deliver safe, high‑quality care.
The impact
As a result of our ongoing efforts, LGH has catalyzed strong partnerships and worked closely with the government of Ethiopia and other public and private partners on the implementation of projects and programs spanning multiple regions and reaching tens of thousands of healthcare workers. This includes Saving Little Lives: a flagship national initiative aimed at reducing neonatal mortality and improving newborn care.
