Where
South Sudan

Why
To ensure that pregnant women and infants have access to quality health services and are protected against key causes of morbidity and mortality.

Funded by
African Mission Health Foundation and Sudan Relief Foundation (have these words inside the photo)

When
2012 – Present

What
Through this initiative, Hands of Mercy International has strengthened maternal and newborn health services in South Sudan, particularly at the Ezo Primary Health Care Center. Previously limited in capacity, the facility now provides comprehensive emergency obstetric and neonatal care, supported by skilled birth attendants and an emergency referral and transportation system for pregnant women.

A key component of the project is community engagement. Hands of Mercy International works closely with traditional birth attendants, equipping them with knowledge and practical skills to encourage expectant mothers to seek timely prenatal care and deliver in health facilities. This approach has helped bridge the gap between communities and formal health systems, especially in remote areas.

In addition, the program supports the provision of essential medical supplies, strengthens health worker capacity through continuous training and mentorship, and promotes awareness on safe motherhood practices and early care-seeking behaviors.

The project has achieved the following:

• Improved the quality and availability of obstetric and neonatal services, including life-saving emergency care.
• Increased demand for facility-based maternal health services and skilled deliveries.
• Strengthened community-to-facility referral systems, ensuring timely access to care.
• Increased the number of pregnant women accessing prenatal and postnatal services.
• Contributed to the prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV through improved screening and care.
• Enhanced community awareness on maternal and child health, leading to safer practices and improved outcomes.

Through this integrated approach, Hands of Mercy International continues to support safer pregnancies, healthier births, and stronger health systems for mothers and infants in South Sudan.