The strategy was launched at a workshop attended by various experts and officials from different sectors, including Deputy Minister of Health Dr. Tarek Tawfik, and representatives from UNFPA, UNICEF, and WHO.

The workshop builds upon Egypt's commitment to the Regional Midwifery and Nursing Strategic Framework 2022-2030, following the Regional Midwifery Forum held in May 2023, the statement said.

Achieving universal coverage of midwife-delivered interventions in Egypt could prevent 50,000 maternal deaths by 2035, according to a report cited in the statement.

During the workshop, several presentations were delivered on topics such as the League of Arab States Midwifery Strategy, global and regional perspectives on midwifery, legislative and regulatory actions for midwifery in Egypt, and midwifery education and training in the country.

Dr. Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, assistant minister for health reforms and ministry spokesperson, emphasized the ways the strategy will strengthen the role of midwives, including ensuring favourable working conditions, fair wages, and opportunities for skill development.

He added that the strategy aims to provide essential healthcare services to pregnant women and move closer to the goal of safe childbirth for every child.

Dr. Naeema Al Gasseer, WHO representative in Egypt, emphasized the importance of a positive pregnancy experience and safe delivery for every woman. Midwives play a crucial role as the first point of contact for women and children, contributing to healthier populations and reducing maternal mortality.

At the end of the workshop, Jeremy Hopkins, UNICEF representative in Egypt, emphasized the significance of aligning midwifery education with international standards and tailoring capacity building to address the needs of vulnerable women.

He concluded by saying that these steps are crucial for improving the quality of care and reducing maternal and newborn mortality and morbidity in Egypt.