Health ministry rallies media to boost awareness on premature birth.

It was under the theme: “Giving premature babies a strong start for a better future”.

The event, organised by the ministry through its Family Health Directorate, sought to raise mass awareness on prematurity, mobilise journalists as key influencers in public health education, and strengthen collaboration between government and technical partners working to safeguard newborn survival. 

It was in partnership with the United Nations Children Funds, UNICEF. Officials said it is part of activities to mark the 2025 edition of the Prematurity Awareness Month

The session opened with a detailed presentation on the history of the commemoration of Prematurity Month, national statistics and the socio-economic implications of premature birth. 

Participants also reviewed strategic national responses aimed at reducing neonatal mortality, one of the country’s most pressing health challenges.

The meeting was presided by the Director of Family Health at the Ministry of Public Health, Dr Ebongo Zacheus Nanje, on behalf of the Minister of Public Health. 

He reiterated government’s commitment to improving newborn survival outcomes, particularly for babies born before 37 weeks of gestation. 

Dr Ebongo described prematurity as a persistent public health challenge that requires sustained action from all sectors. 

“…we are working in partnership with the international community to create awareness so that the population understands what government is doing through policies, strategies and efforts to strengthen the healthcare system,” Dr Ebongo stated.

The Family Health Director noted that government undertakings, “must translate into concrete actions so that pre-term babies have the same opportunity to thrive as any full-term child”.

He urged participants to intensify collective efforts so that every newborn in the country, especially those born too soon, can have the best possible start in life.

Realities in East Region

A documentary filmed in the East Region added a deeply human dimension to the discussions. It showcased the experiences of families, health workers and premature infants struggling for survival. 

The emotional testimonies captured in the film, according to officials sought to showcase the challenges as well as map out the urgency of strengthening neonatal services and expanding access to quality care.

Expert presentations

Several experts delivered technical presentations to guide media reporting on the subject. Prof Kwabong Eric examined key strategies for preventing premature births, while Prof Mah Evelyn shed light on the grave consequences of failed prevention. 

Dr Kana on the other hand gave a presentation on the Kangaroo Mother Care, KMC method which she noted was an inexpensive, life-saving practice recommended for low-birth-weight infants. 

Dr Ngou Patrick detailed the essential requirements for effective neonatal care nationwide. Another highlight was a parent’s moving testimony on the survival journey of a premature child. 

The story captured both the vulnerabilities and the resilience of families navigating the neonatal care system and reinforced the need for ongoing advocacy.

Media task to remain key actor

In an interactive session moderated by Dr Ebongo, journalists exchanged with health experts and partners, including, UNICEF, on how the media can drive public understanding and reduce stigma associated with premature birth. 

Participants on their part insisted on the media’s crucial role in promoting health-seeking behaviour, encouraging timely antenatal care and spreading knowledge of available interventions such as KMC.

Priority communication angles were identified to help journalists produce impactful reporting capable of influencing public attitudes and mobilizing communities. 

The Media Café, officials noted, formed part of strategy to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Public Health, the media, and technical partners. 

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3627 of Monday November 17, 2025