To help reduce the number of women dying during childbirth, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has given 3,700 “Mama kits” to pregnant women in Borno State. These kits have important items needed for a clean and safe delivery.
Francis Busiku, the head of UNICEF’s office in Maiduguri, shared this news on Thursday. He spoke during the launch of the Mama kits distribution in 13 key local government areas in the state where maternal and newborn deaths are high.
He said the donation was necessary because many women in Borno State die during childbirth.
“Borno is one of the Nigerian states where many women and newborns die during childbirth,” he said. “Every day, women risk their lives to give birth. On average, one woman dies every 8 minutes while giving birth. These are not just numbers—they are real people: mothers, daughters, sisters, and future leaders lost to problems we can prevent.”
He also said that this project to reduce deaths among mothers and newborns supports UNICEF’s goal to protect women and children.
“UNICEF wants to make sure no woman dies while giving birth. We also want every child to have a chance to live, grow well, and reach their full potential,” he said.
He added, “That’s why UNICEF is giving out 3,700 Mama kits. These kits are ready-to-use packages with all the necessary items for a clean and safe delivery.”
Francis also asked the government, community leaders, civil society groups, and development partners to support the program and help it grow.
“Let’s remember: every safe delivery is a win. Every mother saved means a better future. And every newborn who lives is a promise we’ve kept,” he said in closing.
