NEW YORK, September 22, 2026


Tanzania has called for sustained global action and increased investment in maternal and child health, citing significant progress made in reducing maternal and child mortality through political commitment and targeted interventions.


Speaking during the General Debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York, Vice President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Deogratius John Ndejembi, said the country’s experience demonstrates that strong political leadership and people-centred investments can translate into measurable health outcomes.


The Vice President said the proportion of births taking place in health facilities had increased from 65% in 2015 to 81% in 2022, reflecting progress in expanding access to maternal health services.


“When we invest in feasible projects, and remain people-centred, development can move from promises to measurable results,” he said.


He also highlighted Tanzania’s progress under the leadership of President Samia Suluhu Hassan, who has taken up the role of championing maternal and child health for the African Union.


According to Vice President Ndejembi, Tanzania has recorded an 80% reduction in maternal deaths over seven years, a development he linked to sustained efforts to strengthen maternal and child health services.


Building on these gains, Tanzania is now promoting the Three Zeros agenda, targeting zero preventable maternal and child deaths, zero home deliveries and zero unvaccinated children.


The Vice President said the country’s experience shows that the agenda can be achieved across Africa, but stressed that this will require continued political commitment, adequate financing and stronger partnerships among governments, development partners and other stakeholders.


He called on the international community to strengthen its support for efforts aimed at accelerating progress in maternal and child health across the continent.


“We, therefore, urge the international community to join us in giving this agenda a push,” Vice President Ndejembi said.