Guiriko: Seventy-one health workers, including midwives and obstetricians, received certification in obstetric clinical care and women's health. The award ceremony, conducted in Bobo-Dioulasso with the Governor of the Guiriko region, Mariama Konate/Gnanou, and several regional health officials in attendance, aimed to celebrate the dedication and efforts of the recipients.
According to Burkina Information Agency, after 18 months of intensive training that combined theoretical and practical learning, these health professionals are now equipped to enhance care for women, particularly in maternal and neonatal health. This training initiative was led by Medecins Sans Frontieres Spain (MSF-E) through the MSF Academy, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, to improve obstetric care quality in regional health facilities.
Dr. Innocent Kunywana, the representative of Medecins Sans Frontieres Spain in Burkina Faso, emphasized that the training represents a significant advancement in local skill development: "It is a great satisfaction to see these professionals ready to provide better care to women and newborns. This reflects our commitment to providing lasting support to the health systems of the countries where we operate," he stated.
Of the 71 certified individuals, 12 are Medecins Sans Frontieres employees from Mali, Niger, and other MSF initiatives in Burkina Faso. The other 59 midwives and obstetricians hail from the Dafra health district, with seven under contract with the humanitarian organization.
Fanta Traore, speaking on behalf of her peers, expressed gratitude to Medecins Sans Frontieres and the instructors for the valuable education and the chance to enhance their professional capabilities. Local authorities also praised the initiative, believing it will help reduce maternal and neonatal mortality risks while strengthening women's health in the region. They encouraged the newly certified professionals to apply their knowledge for the population's well-being.