Assessing the Continuum of Care Pathway for Maternal Health in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa

In the chapter, Haq gives a snapshot of the human progress of South Asia, comparing it with other regions. He was worried about the region beginning to lag behind all other regions, including Sub-Saharan Africa. He highlights the role of the two largest economies in the region, India and Pakistan, in financing the major investment in education, health and nutrition for the people. Haq advocates some fiscal and monetary reforms are suggested to invest in human development.

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Mapping of affordability levels for photovoltaic-based electricity generation in the solar belt of sub-Saharan Africa, East Asia and South Asia

Scientific Reports ◽

10.1038/s41598-021-82638-x ◽

2021 ◽

Vol 11 (1) ◽

Author(s):

Sándor Szabó ◽

Irene Pinedo Pascua ◽

Daniel Puig ◽

Magda Moner-Girona ◽

Mario Negre ◽

...

Keyword(s):

East Asia ◽

South Asia ◽

Electricity Generation ◽

Sub Saharan Africa ◽

Solar Photovoltaic ◽

Term Operation ◽

Sub Saharan ◽

High Level ◽

Do So

AbstractLack of access to modern forms of energy hampers efforts to reduce poverty. The provision of electricity to off-grid communities is therefore a long-standing developmental goal. Yet, many off-grid electrification projects neglect mid- and long-term operation and maintenance costs. When this is the case, electricity services are unlikely to be affordable to the communities that are the project’s primary target. Here we show that, compared with diesel-powered electricity generation systems, solar photovoltaic systems are more affordable to no less than 36% of the unelectrified populations in East Asia, South Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. We do so by developing geo-referenced estimates of affordability at a high level of resolution (1 km2). The analysis illustrates the differences in affordability that may be found at the subnational level, which underscores that electrification investments should be informed by subnational data.

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Pregnancy and childbirth in Mozambique: men as decision makers and women as caretakers?

European Journal of Public Health ◽

10.1093/eurpub/ckaa166.879 ◽

2020 ◽

Vol 30 (Supplement_5) ◽

Author(s):

A Galle ◽

H Cossa ◽

N Osman ◽

K Roelens ◽

S Griffin ◽

...

Keyword(s):

Health Care ◽

Maternal Health ◽

Hiv Prevention ◽

Health Care Providers ◽

Male Involvement ◽

Sub Saharan Africa ◽

Care Providers ◽

Pregnancy And Childbirth ◽

Policy Level ◽

Sub Saharan

Abstract Background Increasing male involvement during pregnancy is considered an important, but often overlooked intervention for improving maternal health in sub-Saharan Africa. This study explores the attitudes and beliefs of health policymakers, health care providers and local communities regarding men's involvement in maternal health in southern Mozambique. Methods Ten key informant interviews with stakeholders were carried out to assess their attitudes and perspectives regarding male involvement in maternal health, followed by 10 days of semi structured observations in health care centers. Subsequently 16 focus group discussions were conducted in the community and at provider level, followed by three in depth couple interviews. Analysis was done by applying a socio-ecological systems theory in thematic analysis. Results Results show a lack of strategy at policy level to stimulate male involvement in maternal health. Invitation cards for men are used as an isolated intervention in health facilities but these have not lead to the expected success. Providers have a rather passive attitude towards male involvement initiatives and women accompanied by a husband are often put in a submissive position. In the community however, male attendance at ANC is considered important and men are willing to take a more participating role. Main barriers are the association of male attendance at ANC with being HIV infected and strong social norms and gender roles. On the one hand men are seen as caretakers of the family by providing money and making the decisions. On the other hand, men supporting their wife by showing interest in their health or sharing household tasks are seen as weak or as a manifestation of HIV seropositivity. Conclusions A clear strategy at policy level and a multi-level approach is needed. Gender-equitable relationships between men and women should be encouraged in all maternal health interventions and health programs should step away from linking male involvement to HIV prevention. Key messages Linking the promotion of gender equality to male involvement is the key for success. Step away from linking HIV prevention to male involvement in maternal health.

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