Maternal and newborn health
Despite a global decline, maternal and neonatal mortality rates are still unacceptably high, with substantial inequalities around the world. Developing regions are especially affected: maternal mortality is still 14 times higher than in the developed world. Reduction in neonatal mortality is also progressing much slower in developing regions compared to the overall reduction in under-five mortality rates.
The differences can be explained by the (non)availability of adequate, accessible, affordable and appropriate care, with quality care increasingly identified as a key factor in reducing illness and mortality. At KIT Royal Tropical Institute we work towards better health for mothers and newborns, using our broad experience in this field.

Challenges
Challenges that contribute to maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity included early marriage and early pregnancy, unmet need for family planning, and high rates of unintended pregnancies – often leading to unsafe abortions. Evidence to guide and prioritise effective responses to address the above challenges is mostly available. But details on context-specific conditions for implementation and the scaling-up of interventions remains a challenge. Implementation is hindered by a lack of adequate human resources and has spurred efforts to strengthen the role of Community Health Workers. However the integration of these interventions into health systems remains problematic.
Focus on hard-to-reach groups
KIT’s Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) team works in close collaboration with partners to address these challenges. We work on the generation of knowledge and building the capacity of community and non-governmental organisations that support vulnerable populations such as: young girls giving birth, women living in remote rural areas or in poor urban areas, marginalised groups such as nomadic populations, and those affected by conflict.
We also work on maternal health from a health systems perspective focusing on:
Human resources for (maternal) health
Our services
Monitoring, Evaluation & Impact Assessment
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KIT Royal Tropical Institute operates at the intersection of theory and practice and between policy and implementation, translating good intentions into meaningful social and economic impact.
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