Childbirth: Outrage Over Zambian Journalist's Death

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The ministry of health in Zambia is investigating the death of a 29-year-old journalist who died in childbirth.

News of Sithembile Zulu's death has led to a public outcry, with fellow journalists highlighting the issue of maternal deaths.

Africa accounts for nearly two thirds of global maternal deaths according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

While Zambia has a better ranking than most African countries, it is still the case that 224 mothers die for every 100,000 live births.


Ministry of Health Spokesperson Dr Maximilian Bweupe has said that Ms Zulu underwent a caesarian section due to foetal distress, a condition where the foetus does not receive sufficient oxygen during pregnancy or labour.

According to the ministry press statement, Ms Zulu became breathless after taking a bath and her condition rapidly deteriorated.