Training Midwives in Afghanistan

Action for Development continues to support improved maternal and newborn health services by strengthening the knowledge and practical skills of midwives who provide essential care to mothers and their babies. Recent feedback from participants demonstrates the value of these training activities in reinforcing their capacity to deliver safer, more effective care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period.

A new cohort of 22 midwives received on the job training during the 3rd quarter of the year, have provided a feedback rating highly positive. Out of 18 respondents, 17 respondents (94%) rated it as “Excellent” and one respondent rated it “Good.” Participants particularly appreciated the practical content covering antenatal and postnatal care, normal childbirth, maternal nutrition, newborn care, family planning, and the prevention and management of postpartum haemorrhage. These topics are essential to improving the quality of care available to mothers and newborns and helping midwives respond more effectively to their health needs.

Participants also highlighted the importance of continued professional development, recommending more frequent and longer training sessions, additional seminars, and greater emphasis on emergency obstetric and newborn care. In particular, they identified pre-eclampsia and eclampsia, postpartum haemorrhage, breech delivery, and obstetric fistula as areas requiring further learning and practical support. This feedback provides valuable guidance for shaping future training activities to address the challenges midwives face in providing care, especially when complications arise during pregnancy or childbirth.

Building on these findings, Action for Development recognises that sustained investment in midwives’ skills is essential to improving access to quality maternal and newborn health services. Continued practical training and targeted support in managing obstetric emergencies will help midwives strengthen their confidence, identify complications promptly, and provide appropriate care or referral when needed. By responding to participants’ recommendations, Action for Development aims to contribute to safer pregnancies and childbirth, better health outcomes for mothers and newborns, and stronger community-based health services in Afghanistan.