Delta govt launches MPCDSR report, decries child mortality rates

Delta State Government has launched the Maternal, Perinatal, and Child Death Surveillance and Response (MPCDSR) Report for 2012-2023, highlighting concerns over maternal and child mortality rates.

Speaking at the launch of the Maternal, Perinatal, and Child Death Surveillance and Response (MPCDSR) Report for the period 2012 to 2023 in Asaba, Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, assured that the state will implement the report’s recommendations to improve health indicators.

According to him, though every maternal death is a tragedy but with the help of the MPCDSR system, the pattern, causes and circumstances surrounding maternal and perinatal deaths across the State would be understood and its recommendations to avert such deaths would be implemented fully.

The Commissioner said the theme for the launch “Improving Maternal and Perinatal Outcomes Through Accountability and Action” emphasized the need for the State to move beyond rhetoric to responsibility, observation to implementation as it is the collective mirror that will move Delta State to act with greater urgency, compassion, and resolve.

“We will ensure that the findings from the MPCDSR review do not remain on paper but we will track its recommendation and hold ourselves and facilities accountable for implementation, not as punishment but as a pathway to improvement,” the Commissioner stated.

Dr. Onojaeme disclosed that the report was rooted in a no blame no shame process making it a safe space for learning and urged health workers to participate openly in reviews which is a tool for growth rather than fear.

The Secretary to the state government, Dr Kingsley Emu at the occasion noted that maternal and perinatal deaths were not just statistics but a story of a life lost, a family shaken, and a system that could have done better.

Dr Emu equally noted that the MPCDSR report that was being launched serves as evidence and a road map that would help guide government, health professionals, Partners, and communities in reducing maternal and perinatal deaths in the State.

He added that the Oborevwori’s administration will continue to prioritize the health of women and children not just in words but in budgetary commitments, policy framework, and programmatic interventions.