Haramaya University’s College of Health and Medical Sciences Engages Stakeholders on Opti-Map Project to Combat Maternal and Infant Mortality.
Haramaya University’s Opti-Map Project, supported by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR), recently convened key stakeholders from the justice and health sectors in Addis Ababa to discuss legal and procedural frameworks critical to the Maternal and Infant Mortality Survey and Feedback (MPDSR) initiative. The collaborative dialogue involved representatives from the Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, and various professional associations.
Dr. Abera Kennai, lecturer, researcher, and coordinator of the Opti-Map Project, emphasized the shared recognition among stakeholders of the urgent need to address maternal and infant mortality in Ethiopia. The meeting focused on identifying existing legal frameworks and the development of enabling conditions that empower health professionals to effectively fulfill their duties while ensuring data quality and professional safety.
MPDSR is a systematic process that collects and analyzes data on maternal and infant deaths both within and outside health facilities. This evidence-based feedback mechanism aims to identify causes of death and inform interventions to prevent future fatalities. Dr. Abera highlighted the essential role of such forums in promoting professional ethics, reducing maternal and child mortality, and securing appropriate legal protections and accountability for healthcare workers.
Addressing legal challenges, Mr. Bacha Daba, law lecturer at Haramaya University, noted that current policies limit the mandatory implementation of MPDSR, raising concerns about the confidentiality and reliability of mortality reviews. He observed that these limitations have led many experts to refrain from participating or sharing candid opinions in the surveys. Mr. Bacha advocated for strengthening the initiative through clear decrees, regulations, and guidelines to enhance the system’s credibility and effectiveness.
Forum participants, including Mrs. Alemtsehay Yemech and Mr. Amare Hailekiros, stressed that the collaborative preparations led by Haramaya University are critical to bridging awareness gaps and improving the overall impact of the MPDSR program.
A consensus was reached on the need to formulate an independent MPDSR law that guarantees legal protections for health professionals, ensuring a safe environment for accurate data collection and professional conduct. Dr. Abera announced that the Opti-Map Project will continue working closely with the Ministry of Health and the Ethiopian Public Health Institute to drive the development and implementation of this legislation, fostering a stronger, coordinated approach to reducing maternal and infant mortality across the country.
Reporter: Tadele Tilahun
Photographer: Behailu Girma
Haramaya University Public & International Relations Directorate
Tags: College of Health and Medical Sciences, Community Health, Ethiopia Health System, Haramaya University, Health Innovation, Healthcare Research, Infant Mortality, Maternal and Child Health, Maternal Mortality, Opti-Map Project, Public Health, Stakeholder Engagement