Two MDWs from our churches work in one of the poorest countries in Central Asia. Because of safety, we call them Deborah and Ruth. They are doctors and teachers. In rural areas, there is a lot of maternal and infant mortality. This concerns them and they want to change it. They work in a Muslim country where the Gospel is still little known. Through this project, foreign workers can serve the country and share God's love through their lives. Without this project, it would be impossible for them to witness in this closed country.
Why this project?
The Central Asian country lacks government finances. People have to pay out of pocket for care and medicines. This often leads to care avoidance. There are many unhealthy diets due to a lack of knowledge among the population. Moreover, the health system operates in a culture of honour and shame. Health workers such as nurses, midwives and doctors experience high pressure as a result. Checks and evaluations are not meant to learn from and improve care, but to assign blame in case of a negative outcome, such as death. On top of this, many health workers lack the knowledge and skills needed. There is also little focus on the psychosocial aspects. The Mother and Child Project focuses on educating health workers. They have the greatest impact on the health of people in their villages; through correct treatment, but no less by listening well, and giving good explanations and advice. The workers also give classes to pregnant women in rural areas. In a series of six weekly classes, women are taught basic knowledge about their health and that of their children; especially around pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding. Fundamental knowledge on healthy eating and hygiene is part of this. The classes not only provide much-needed information, but also encourage behavioural change and healthy choices.
Impact
This creates a better quality of healthcare, especially around childbirth. Furthermore, health care becomes more woman-friendly and patient-friendly, with attention to psychosocial aspects. The project also wants husbands, mothers-in-law and fathers-in-law to be able to give better support to their (pregnant) wife or daughter-in-law; thus a better position for women within the household, especially regarding their right to health.
What can we learn?
In all activities, genuine attention to the person is central, stemming from the belief that God reaches out with his love to the people of this country. The workers invest in relationships with their own staff, but also with women and health workers participating in the project. It is precisely within these relationships that they can witness, for example by praying with people, listening carefully to them, and passing on our Hope in Jesus Christ.
