UNFPA, CBC Health Services empower Health Facilities to deliver Quality Maternal and Reproductive Healthcare in Conflict-Affected Regions
The Cameroon Baptist Convention Health Services (CBCHS), in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), recently concluded more than two weeks of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) mission across nine health facilities in the North West and South West regions of Cameroon — areas deeply affected by conflict and displacement.
This intensive field mission, funded by ECHO, CERF, and the Government of Canada aimed at ensuring that lifesaving sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and maternal and newborn services are reaching the most vulnerable populations effectively, ethically, and sustainably.
The M&E team assessed five CBCHS facilities — Kumba, Ndu, Ekondo Titi, Finkwi, and Ashong Baptist Health Centres — funded by UNFPA/ECHO, and four government district health centres — Binka, Baba I, Njungo, and Mamfe, funded by UNFPA/CERF and UNFPA/Canada, respectively.
A Thorough, Participatory Review Process
The evaluation was both meticulous and inclusive. It began with facility walkthroughs covering maternity wards, operating theatres, laboratories, pharmacies, and neonatal units — examining infrastructure, medical supplies, and emergency readiness using the Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) checklist.
The team carried out record reviews to verify data accuracy, ensuring transparency between reported cases and actual patient records. Through direct observations, they assessed real-time maternity care, including the use of partographs, respectful maternity practices, and the management of obstetric emergencies.
Additionally, staff interviews and focus groups were conducted to understand challenges and highlight successes. Health personnel shared that continuous training, mentorship, and provision of essential medical kits have greatly improved their ability to handle emergency deliveries and reproductive health complications.
Short exit interviews with mothers and families provided invaluable feedback. Many expressed gratitude, noting that for the first time in years, they could deliver safely, access free medical care, and receive support without fear of long, unsafe journeys.
Turning Findings into Action
Data gathered was analyzed to determine if all EmONC signal functions were being met, identifying facility readiness and areas for improvement. Rather than a top-down process, the CBCHS-UNFPA team worked collaboratively with facility staff to co-develop action plans, empowering local leadership and accountability.
Preliminary findings were discussed with facility management and district health officers, setting the stage for follow-up visits and continuous progress tracking.
This hands-on, evidence-based approach reflects the UNFPA-CBCHS partnership’s deep commitment to strengthening maternal and newborn healthcare systems in conflict-affected communities while promoting local involvement and sustainability.
Impact Beyond the Numbers
Today, across these nine facilities, women who once feared childbirth due to distance, insecurity or cost are now delivering safely. The project’s interventions — from deployment of skilled midwives , the creation of maternity waiting homes, to youth peer educators, provision of delivery kits and baby boxes in some psychosocial counseling, and family planning — have transformed access to care.
Communities now report fewer maternal deaths, healthier newborns, and improved trust in health systems. Every successful delivery, every saved life, and every restored smile is a testament to the power of partnership, compassion, and professional excellence.
