Maternity Crisis Deepens in Chamen as Youth Leader Alleges Political Block on New Ward

Written by: Dawda Baldeh

A youth leader from Chamen Nianija has raised fresh concerns over the condition of the local health centre, describing the situation as critical for women going into labour, with limited space and inadequate facilities continuing to put lives at risk.

In an exclusive interview with The Fatu Network, Momodou Cham said women in labour are being forced to endure harsh conditions at the Chamen health centre, which he described as being in a dire state. He said the situation has worsened over time, with some women reportedly sharing delivery beds due to overcrowding.

Cham, who initiated a project in 2024 to construct a new maternity ward, alleged that the building permit for the project was revoked just two days after the foundation stone was laid. He claimed the decision was politically motivated and has since stalled efforts to improve maternal care in the community.

“As we speak, it has been nearly two years since the government politically revoked Club Diaspora’s permit to build a new maternity ward for women, yet nothing has been done to date,” he said. “Women are suffering now more than ever. At times, two to three women have to share a single delivery bed.”

He added that access to basic healthcare remains a serious challenge for women in the area, with many facing difficult conditions during childbirth.

Cham also shared a personal loss, saying he lost his first child at the same health centre, a tragedy he believes reflects the broader failures in the system.

He criticised the government and the Ministry of Health, accusing them of failing to provide essential services and allowing politics to interfere with healthcare delivery in his community.

More details will follow as the story develops.