UNGA 2026: President Suluhu calls for more funds to end maternal, child deaths in Africa

President Suluhu made the remarks in a speech delivered on her behalf by Tanzania’s Vice President Deogratius Ndejembi during the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

She noted that Africa can make further progress if governments maintain political commitment and invest in healthcare systems that put people at the centre.

She praised Tanzania’s progress in improving access to healthcare, noting that the proportion of women delivering in health facilities increased from 51 per cent in 2015 to 81 per cent in 2022.

"It is without a doubt that political commitment is paramount in undertaking focused investments, in that Tanzania has made significant strides in reducing maternal and child mortality by expanding facility delivery from 51 per cent in 2015 to 81 per cent in 2022," President Suluhu said.

She said Tanzania’s experience shows that sustained investment in practical, people-centred programmes can produce measurable results.

"Under her leadership, Tanzania reduced maternal deaths by 80 per cent in just seven years," Vice President Ndejembi said while delivering the speech.

President Samia said Africa should now focus on achieving the "three zeros" which comprise zero preventable maternal and child deaths, zero home deliveries and zero unvaccinated children.

She noted that achieving these goals would require sustained political leadership, adequate financing and stronger partnerships between African countries and the international community.

"Our experience shows us that this is an agenda that Africa can achieve, but it will require sustained political leadership, adequate financing and stronger partnerships," President Suluhu highlighted. 

"We therefore urge the international community to join us in giving this agenda a big push."

Africa CDC says the continent accounts for close to 70%  of maternal deaths globally, believing that close to 90% of deaths can be averted. 

The 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly, where presidents, prime ministers and other senior officials address global issues, is taking place from September 22 to 28 in New York. 

The session is being held under the theme, "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all" which reflects concerns over conflicts, inequality, climate emergencies, declining trust in international institutions and rapid technological change.