The Ministry of Health provided instruction to trainers at the Cambodian Midwives Association in maternal and child healthcare, aiming to enhance the capabilities of perinatal nurses and ensure that women receive high-quality and safe services during pregnancy, delivery and post-delivery. 

Key participants in the effort included Chheng Svay Chea Ath, director of the association, ministry secretary of state Prak Sophorn Neary and Kim Rattana, director of the National Maternal and Child Health Centre (NMCHC).

Sophorn Neary stated that the objective was to expand the number of instructors in each branch of the association, enabling ongoing education for members and other midwives.

“The training is crucial for enhancing the knowledge and capacity of coaches at each branch of the association, so they can continue teaching our members,” she added.

She also expressed her admiration for members of the group, acknowledging their dedication to improving their skills and their physical and mental sacrifices to achieve success in the sector.

Health minister Chheang Ra highlighted that mortality rates for babies and children under five has halved since 2014, with figures showing fewer than 16 child fatalities and 12 infant deaths and per 1,000 live births in 2021-2022. 

“This achievement indicates that Cambodia has already met the 2023 sustainable development goals [SDGs] in preventing deaths of babies under one year and children under five,” he added.

The ministry reported significant improvements in prenatal care, with almost all pregnant women receiving antenatal support from trained medical staff – a substantial increase from 38 per cent in 2000.

The presence of trained medical staff during almost all deliveries has also risen dramatically, from 30 per cent in 2000 to 99 per cent in 2021-2022.