In a recent session at the National Assembly, Gambia's Minister of Health, Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, disclosed that the country recorded a total of 130 maternal deaths in 2025. This statistic was revealed in response to a question regarding the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) from lawmakers, indicating ongoing concerns related to maternal health despite ongoing improvements. Minister Samateh noted that the maternal deaths occurred among 80,720 live births, resulting in a MMR of 129 deaths per 100,000 live births.

The reported maternal mortality ratio shows significant progress from previous years, where Gambia faced a troubling rate of 289 deaths per 100,000 live births. This decline reflects improvements in medical care, maternal health services, and health education. However, the fact that maternal deaths are still occurring at this rate raises concerns about the accessibility and quality of healthcare, particularly for women in rural areas where health services might not be adequately available.

Minister Samateh's disclosure comes as a reminder that while there have been advancements in healthcare, the fight to reduce maternal mortality in The Gambia is far from over. Addressing the challenges in maternal health care remains a critical issue for the government, requiring sustained efforts and investment in health infrastructure, education, and access to care. The statistics are vital as they guide policymakers in addressing the barriers and improving health outcomes for women throughout the country.