​Koketso Maraba
 
Midwives have been recognised as essential pillars of maternal and child healthcare at the 19th Annual Congress of the Society of Midwives of South Africa (SOMSA). The event, attended by professionals from across the country and neighbouring nations, highlighted the critical role midwives play in saving lives and strengthening health systems.
MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, praised midwives for their bravery and dedication, calling them the hands that bring new life and the voices that comfort families.
"Midwives are the heartbeat of maternal and new-born care. In every emergency, from pandemics to disasters, midwives show up. You adapt. You innovate. You keep going, even when conditions are tough. That is courage in action," said the MEC.
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) is intensifying efforts to support midwifery by improving working conditions, expanding training, and retaining skilled professionals. The department's strategy focuses on reducing maternal deaths through better management of high blood pressure, bleeding, and infections. For newborns, programmes aim to prevent HIV transmission, care for premature babies, and ensure timely vaccinations.
Beyond childbirth, midwives contribute to family planning, cervical cancer screening, breastfeeding promotion, and malnutrition prevention. These are key areas in meeting World Health Organisation health targets, of which, through education and counselling, they empower families to lead healthier lives
However, the profession faces a global crisis. The World Health Organisation warns of a projected shortfall of 900 000 midwives by 2035, potentially leaving millions without adequate care. In response, the GDoH is investing in midwifery education and retention.
Attendees shared how the congress enriched their knowledge and built professional networks. "I learned so much and updated my skills. Meeting colleagues from across the country helped me build a sense of community," said Lungile Gamede, a midwife at Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital.
Xolani Dlamini, an academic from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, stressed the importance of evidence-based education. "Academic institutions must keep up with clinical advancements and global standards," he said.
The SOMSA congress continues to be a vital platform for collaboration, learning, and advocacy, reminding all that midwives are indispensable, especially in times of crisis.