International Day of the Midwife 2026 – Blood Collection – Burundi

As part of the commemoration of the International Day of Midwives on 5 May 2026, The Midwife in Action’s Association (MAA) will organize a voluntary blood donation activity under the theme: “4,000 More Midwives for Burundi — #EveryMidwifeCounts.” The event will take place on 3 May 2026 at Kanyosha Minor Seminary starting at 9:00 AM, in collaboration with the National Blood Transfusion Center (CNTS).
This initiative aims to contribute to the availability of safe blood for emergency obstetric and neonatal care, particularly in managing complications such as postpartum hemorrhage, which remains the leading cause of maternal mortality in Burundi. Despite progress, the maternal mortality ratio is still estimated at 299 deaths per 100,000 live births, far from the Sustainable Development Goal target.
The activity will mobilize students, midwives, health professionals, local authorities, faith-based organizations, media, and community members to participate as voluntary blood donors. It will also serve as a platform to raise awareness on the essential role of midwives in saving lives.
Through this initiative, MAA seeks to promote community engagement, strengthen partnerships, and advocate for increased investment in midwifery and maternal health services in Burundi.