U.S. Ambassador Donald Blome at a Ceremony to Present Healthcare Equipment to Community Midwives

Sindh Rural Support Organization Office, Sukkur

KARACHI, OCT 11: /DNA/ – Thank you so much for your kind invitation to be here today.  This is my fourth trip to Sindh since last year’s floods.  Health care services were hit hard, with disproportionate effects on women and children.  Despite the progress that has been made to rebuild the affected areas, many people are still feeling the effects of those devastating floods.

My message today is this:  the United States is still here, still working.  We are committed to you and the work you do to improve the health of women and children.

And I in particular want to commend the heroic work of community midwives.  Your expertise saves lives.  You are the reason we’ve seen a reduction in maternal and infant mortality here in the province.

Many of you had your clinics, service rooms, equipment, and supplies damaged or destroyed in the floods.  We all owe it to you – and the women, families, and communities you serve — to ensure that you have the facilities and equipment you need to conduct this vital work.

Too often, the provision of maternal and child health services is concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural communities underserved. Today I’m announcing that the United States is providing 100 birthing stations and essential equipment to communities affected by last year’s devastating floods.

My hope is that these new birthing stations will improve access to skilled birthing attendants, maternal healthcare, and delivery services.

Thank you for the critical, lifesaving work that you do.  The United States supports you in your efforts to build a brighter and healthier future for the women and children of Sindh.