The MamaYe north project is part of the maternal and child health, an Evidence for Action program. This part of the project is being funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for two years.
The two launches which were community based took place at Bandawe Community Ground in Nkhatabay and Bolero Community Ground in Rumphi. These events were successfully organized by the District Implementation Teams (DIT) with support from the MamaYe team in Lilongwe and Mzuzu.
Among the activities that took place on this day were dances, poetry, drama performances, songs and speeches. Most of these performances were done by MamaYe club members and activists.
Speaking during the function at Bolero in Rumphi, Parent and Child Health Initiative (PACHI) Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Charles Makwenda, recommended the enthusiasm and interest shown by the Rumphi district officials especially the District Health Office (DHO), the local authority and the communities in supporting the MamaYe campaign and its course of making pregnancy a safe experience for all.
MamaYe campaign is for all of us, and as PACHI who will be in this district just to support that campaign, we are humbled with the way you have welcomed the project.
Addressing the audience gathered at the official launch in Nkhatabay, Matthias Chatuluka, MamaYe! Country Lead assured people of Nkhatabay that MamaYe is ready to work with the communities and other partners to ensure safe motherhood hence reducing maternal and neonatal death rates.
With the support from the District Implementing Team and communities, we are sure both maternal and neonatal deaths rates will be reduced to almost zero in the next 2 years if we work together.
Both launches were massively patronized by the surrounding communities and graced by the district assembly officials, the health zonal office, the DHO, civil society organizations, the clergy, government extension workers and MamaYe activists.
The guest of honor for both Rumphi and Nkhatabay events were the District Council Chairpersons, who are elected councilors.
Due to other logistical challenges the Mzimba South launch did not take place, and preparations are underway to have it done on Tuesday, 22nd December, 2015.