National campaign launched to promote the importance of prenatal care

In line with the implementation of the 2023-2027 communication strategy for social and behavioral change developed by the National Initiative for Human Development (INDH) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, a national communication campaign highlighting the significance of prenatal care is set to run from April 7 to May 8.

Under the slogan “Early and regular pregnancy monitoring… to safeguard the health of both mother and baby,” this campaign emphasizes the focus on promoting maternal and neonatal health. It coincides with Morocco's celebration of World Health Day on April 7, which this year is themed around maternal and neonatal health, as chosen by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The campaign aims to consolidate achievements and enhance prenatal consultation performance, leveraging proven scientific evidence that demonstrates its effectiveness in reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. It also seeks to expand efforts toward other components of the critical first thousand days of life, recognized as a crucial opportunity for optimal development of future generations.

Additionally, as part of this strategy, an online learning platform, "Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC)," has been designed with the support of the World Bank. This initiative aims to promote and establish behaviors and practices that foster optimal health and nutrition during the first thousand days of a child's life, from conception to age two.

A first training cycle will commence in April, targeting healthcare professionals involved in maternal and child health and nutrition, as well as community health workers active in this field.

In line with Morocco's commitments to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030, and in coherence with the country's new development model and national directives aimed at eliminating preventable maternal and neonatal deaths, significant efforts have been made to improve maternal and neonatal health, spearheaded by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection. This initiative is supported by the INDH, governmental sectors, non-governmental partners, WHO, and various UN agencies.

The celebration of World Health Day serves as an excellent opportunity to reinforce the role of all stakeholders in maintaining the national performance level, evidenced by a 35% reduction in the maternal mortality ratio between 2010 and 2016, and a 38% decrease in neonatal mortality during the same period.

The Ministry of Health and Social Protection and the INDH are launching a multi-channel campaign to raise awareness about maternal and neonatal health and nutrition. This approach includes broadcasting television and radio spots in Arabic and Amazigh, along with sharing digital clips and publications on the ministry's website and social media platforms of the INDH.

Moreover, awareness sessions will be organized in healthcare facilities and Dar Al Oumouma centers. Messages aimed at enhancing community mobilization will also be incorporated into Friday sermons to promote and establish behaviors and practices that ensure optimal health and nutrition for mothers and children.