Reducing Maternal Mortality: An Examination of the Role of Skilled Birth Attendants and Healthcare System Strengthening

Abstract

Maternal mortality remains a significant public health challenge in Zimbabwe despite policy reforms and international support, with preventable deaths persisting particularly in rural and peri-urban areas where access to skilled birth attendants and functional health systems is limited. This study examined the role of skilled birth attendants and healthcare system strengthening in reducing maternal mortality in selected districts of Zimbabwe using an exploratory sequential mixed-methods design. Qualitative data from focus groups, interviews, and observations informed a structured questionnaire administered to 120 respondents, with thematic analysis for qualitative data and SPSS (Version 26) used for quantitative analysis, including Pearson Chi-square tests at a 5% significance level. Findings revealed that availability of skilled birth attendants, distance to facilities, quality of care, health system resources, household income, and education level significantly influenced maternal health service utilisation (p < 0.05). The study concludes that improving healthcare infrastructure, increasing access to skilled birth attendants, enhancing midwife training, and removing financial barriers are essential strategies for reducing maternal mortality in Zimbabwe.