• Health experts meet in Lomé to revise emergency maternal care guidelines

• Update will align protocols with latest WHO recommendations

• New guide aims to improve care and reduce maternal and newborn deaths

Health professionals have been meeting in Lomé since March 23, 2026, to update the provider guide on emergency obstetric and neonatal care, a key reference tool aimed at improving treatment for mothers and newborns.

The initiative is led by the African Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SAGO) and seeks to bring clinical practices in line with recent developments, incorporating updated recommendations from the World Health Organization (WHO).

First developed in 2018, the guide is now being revised to reflect new clinical approaches, particularly in managing complications related to childbirth.

“This guide provides a set of emergency procedures for caring for mothers and newborns. The goal is to update it in line with WHO recommendations, including new approaches, especially in managing postpartum hemorrhage,” said Professor Khaled Neji, president of SAGO.

The work focuses on harmonizing protocols and promoting validated medical practices, including new treatments and procedures. The objective is to strengthen the capacity of healthcare workers and reduce risks associated with obstetric emergencies.

“It is important to update the 2018 guide to reflect evidence-based recommendations, in order to improve the quality of care and save the lives of mothers and newborns,” said Dr. Léopold Ouédraogo, WHO regional adviser.

Togolese authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening maternal health systems. The updated version of the guide is expected to be validated in April 2026 in Abidjan, before being rolled out across SAGO member countries.

R.E.D