Indigenous women urge government to recognise, equip traditional birth attendants

Indigenous women have urged the government to recognize and equip traditional birth attendants, while also seeking to raise their other demands at upcoming global platforms. At a three-day conference that concluded with celebrations marking the International Day of the World’s Indigenous People, women from 27 ASAL Counties stressed the vital role traditional midwives play in maternal health, cultural continuity and community well-being.

Led by Jane Meriwass, convener of the Indigenous Women Council, the women highlighted the need for culturally appropriate health services and stronger referral systems between traditional midwives and health facilities. Jane also called for the recognition of Indigenous women as custodians of forests, range lands, water sources, biodiversity and other natural resources, as well as traditional medicine, food systems, and climate adaptation knowledge.