Gabon: Training In Neonatal Resuscitation

Around 25% of deaths among new-borns worldwide are due to asphyxia during the birth period. In Gabon, neonatal mortality is approximately 26%, with asphyxia, infections and premature birth being the main reasons.

Following a request from the Ministry of Health and Population, the NNIA organised a training course at Oyem, Gabon for 25 nurses and mid-wives of Woleu Ntem Region on 1 April. This training allowed these healthcare professionals to acquire basic skills in order to help babies breath during their first minutes, and in so doing, save many lives.

To improve infant mortality rates, the NNIA in Gabon collaborates with professional associations and medical institutions in order to improve healthcare professional’s capabilities.

According to Dr Mengue Christiane, member of Gabon Pediatric Society and principal trainer:  “This training is a step-down activity of the National Train the Trainers Seminar in Neonatal Resuscitation, organised in June 2015 by the NNIA in collaboration with the Swiss Society of Neonatology. Following that, and with the support of NNIA, seven step-down scientific events have been organised for 190 healthcare professionals in neonatal care in Gabon.”