Benin, situated in West Africa, boasts a diverse population surpassing 12 million. With a per capita income of $2,050, life expectancy stands at 62 for females and 59 for males. The infant mortality rate is 45 per 1,000 live births. While Porto-Novo serves as the official capital, Cotonou, Benin’s largest city and chief port, functions as its de facto administrative capital.
Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (MNCH)
Benin faces challenges in maternal health, evidenced by a maternal mortality ratio that necessitates targeted interventions. Traditional birth attendants (TBAs), though crucial, often operate at the periphery of the health system. In 2020, Benin reported 397 maternal deaths per 100,000 live-born children, a stark contrast to the global average of 223 deaths. Benin’s neonatal mortality rate of 30 deaths per 1,000 births surpasses the global average, highlighting the urgency for enhanced access to quality maternal care.
Malaria, Tuberculosis (TB), and Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs)
Malaria remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Benin, constituting 44 percent of medical consultations and 31 percent of hospitalizations. In 2021, tuberculosis incidence was 53 cases per 100,000 people, with a relatively stable mortality rate. Neglected Tropical Diseases, including Lymphatic Filariasis, Onchocerciasis, Schistosomiasis, Soil-transmitted Helminthiasis, and Trachoma, contribute to substantial health risks, resulting in life-altering morbidity and long-term disabilities.
Disease Surveillance, Emergency Preparedness, & Outbreak Response
Benin grapples with challenges related to recurrent disease outbreaks, including cholera, infectious diseases, and other public health emergencies. The country actively engages in disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and outbreak response to minimize the impact of these health crises, requiring continuous efforts and resources.
Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs)
NCDs pose a significant health challenge in Benin, reflected in the 2021 age-standardized mortality rate for major NCDs (Cardiovascular Disease, Chronic Respiratory Disease, Cancer, and Diabetes). The rate was 731 per 100,000 in males and 579 in females. Addressing NCDs is crucial for improving overall health outcomes in the population, demanding comprehensive strategies and interventions.
OUR PROJECTS & PROGRAMMES
Advocacy and Policy Influence:
Advocate for policies that foster community-led health interventions for MNCH and contribute to the overall improvement of health outcomes.
Capacity Building:
Initiate training programs to enhance the skills of community outreach workers in four communes. Empower them to deliver essential Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH) services, acting as a crucial link between healthcare facilities and remote communities, to start in three communes.
Community Outreach Workers:
Establish a network of community outreach workers in Benin strategically positioned to provide health education, support MNCH services, and contribute to disease prevention efforts. These workers will serve as valuable intermediaries between healthcare professionals and communities.
Mobile Health Clinic:
Establish a mobile health clinic in departments of Atakora, Alibori, to extend healthcare services to remote and underserved areas. The clinic will provide essential health screenings, consultations, and basic medical services to communities with limited access to traditional healthcare facilities.
Implement targeted screening programs for Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Benin.
