The First Lady, Dr. (Mrs.) Ernestina Naadu Mills has called for proper regulation of the midwifery profession, in order to make it more attractive to younger generations. This she noted will require sustainable investments in education and human resource from governments, private sectors, communities and individuals.

Dr. Ernestina Naadu Mills made the call when she joined the Midwives across the country to celebrate the 21st International Day of the Midwife at Agomanya in the Eastern Region of Ghana on Thursday. The day was also used to present and launch the “Atlas of Birth” which profiles countries and their commitments to reducing Maternal and Child birth globally.

Dr. Naadu Mills emphasized the need to build stronger association with one voice and unity as catalysts for promoting proper anti-natal and post-natal care and reminded midwives of the critical role they need to play in the process.

This year’s celebration is under the theme: “Midwives Saves Lives; Invest In Midwifery” and seeks to remind society that no woman should die giving life. She indicated that society as well as individuals needs to strengthen their roles because some maternal deaths she added, still occur and campaigned for zero maternal death.

“I must admit that midwives have greatly contributed to the marked progress that Ghana has made in the reduction of maternal mortality. The progress is good news but it is not enough to enough the MDG 5 target by 2015”, she added.

The First Lady assured midwives that she will follow soon on the pledges that have been documented by the district assemblies during her ten regional Campaigns for Accelerated Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa (CARMMA) initiative in Ghana. This she said is in defense to access to maternal health services.