Health authorities in the Upper West Region have raised alarm over maternal mortality, revealing that 27 women died during childbirth in 2025.

The Upper West Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Josephat Ana-Imwine Nyuzaghl, described the situation as unacceptable, stressing that no woman should lose her life while bringing forth new life.

He disclosed this at the 2025 Upper West Regional Health Sector Annual Performance Review Meeting held in Wa, where stakeholders gathered to assess the region’s healthcare delivery and outcomes.

“Our institutional maternal mortality remains a challenge, with 27 women lost in 2025. This trend is unacceptable, and we must work harder to reverse it. No woman should die while bringing forth new life,” he stated.

Dr. Nyuzaghl also provided an update on meningitis in the region, indicating that as of Week 10 in 2026, a total of 57 suspected cases had been recorded. Out of these, 11 cases have been confirmed across six districts, with six deaths reported.

He assured the public that treatment for meningitis remains free at health facilities and urged residents to report symptoms early to improve outcomes.

Delivering the keynote address, the Upper West Regional Minister, Lawyer Charles Lwanga Puozuing, appealed to health professionals across the country to consider postings to the region as an opportunity to make meaningful impact.

“I wish to appeal to health professionals across the country to view postings to the Upper West Region not merely as routine assignments but as a noble opportunity to serve where their expertise is most needed,” he said.

The review meeting brought together key stakeholders, including members of the Upper West Regional Members of Parliament Caucus, to deliberate on critical health challenges and workforce resilience.

The event was chaired by Professor Bernard Akanbang Deen of the School of Graduate Studies at the University of Business and Integrated Development Studies, who underscored the need for sustained collaboration to improve healthcare delivery in the region.

Outstanding health workers and facilities were also recognised for their contributions during the event.

Source: Rafiq Asalat/Channel 24/7