While seen as societal progress and also development, investing in female health and resources in Malawi is not just something for women but a big move. Per history, women's health and well-being have been overlooked or undervalued. The health needs of women are to be recognised as it is not only a matter of social justice but also a strategic investment with benefits to communities.
Investing in female health really shows human rights and health equity. In most rural areas, there is very little access to healthcare centres due to scarcity of clinics and sometimes long distances whereas in semi-urban and urban areas, there are low numbers of health workers in these centres. Every woman, regardless of her status, geographical location or cultural background, just to mention a few, deserves access to unlimited healthcare services tailored to her needs. By investing in female health, the right of every woman is upheld to lead a healthy and fulfilling life that is free from discrimination and inequality.
Investing in female health goes beyond the provision of medical services since it is about empowering women and girls to take control of their own health and well-being. I can say investing in female health can also mean/include young women having access to, for instance, education, information and resources that are related to reproductive health, family planning (e.g contraceptives) and maternal care especially in rural areas of Malawi. This in the end empowers women to make informed decisions about their bodies and futures. Henceforth when women are healthy and empowered, they participate better and fully in social, economic and political life at the same time driving positive change within their communities.
One of the most compelling reasons to invest in female health is to improve maternal and child health outcomes. Malawi, being one of the countries with highest maternal mortality ratios, is currently estimated at 5.7 maternal deaths per 1,000 live births (according to media reports). Adolescent pregnancies comprise 25 percent of all births and 20 percent of maternal deaths. However, we can save the lives of mothers and newborns, reduce the burden of disease, and promote healthy families and communities by simply ensuring access to quality maternal healthcare services in both government and private hospitals.
Additionally, numerous studies have shown that investing in women's health and education yields returns in terms of economic growth and development. It is obvious that healthy women are more productive workers which makes them capable of contributing to economic development and poverty reduction. Moreover, investing in female health fosters innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience.
In conclusion, investing in female health is not only the right thing to do but also an important move. Prioritising women's well-being can empower women and girls, break the cycle of poverty, improve maternal and child health outcomes. It is high time Malawi recognizes the importance of investing in female health as a strategic imperative for a better future for all.
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