How did Jacinda Ardern save the Safer Births in Crisis project?

Jacinda Ardern, through the Matariki Fund for Women, provided crucial funding to revive the Safer Births in Crisis project after it was cut by US foreign aid.

What is postpartum haemorrhage and why is it dangerous in South Sudan?

Postpartum haemorrhage is excessive bleeding after childbirth. In South Sudan, conflict and climate change have crippled the health system, making it a leading cause of maternal mortality.

What new methods will the Safer Births in Crisis project test in Burkina Faso?

The project will test a blood-collection drape to measure bleeding and the home-use of misoprostol to prevent deadly hemorrhages in women in Burkina Faso.

Home / Health / Ardern Rescues Maternal Health Project from US Aid Cuts

Ardern Rescues Maternal Health Project from US Aid Cuts

1 Jan

•

Summary

Jacinda Ardern's fund revived a maternal health project cut by US aid.
The project tests a new approach to measure and treat postpartum bleeding.
Safer Births in Crisis now focuses on South Sudan and Burkina Faso.

Ardern Rescues Maternal Health Project from US Aid Cuts

A vital project aimed at saving mothers during childbirth, previously cancelled due to drastic US foreign aid reductions, is now operational thanks to former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern. The Safer Births in Crisis initiative, spearheaded by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), will test innovative methods, including a specialized drape to measure postpartum bleeding, in South Sudan and Burkina Faso.

Previously budgeted at $10 million (£7.5m) and planned for seven countries, the project now operates with $4 million (£3m) in two crisis-hit nations. US aid cuts in January 2025 severely impacted healthcare systems in South Sudan, leading to increased maternal mortality. Similarly, Burkina Faso saw nearly 30,000 pregnant women miss prenatal care.

Through the Matariki Fund for Women, Ardern's support has enabled the IRC to re-establish the program, albeit with a narrower focus. The coalition will also test the home-use of misoprostol, a drug effective against deadly bleeding, and monitor for potential issues like the reuse of medical supplies in conflict zones.