Maseru, March.06 – Although maternal and neonatal deaths have declined in health facilities run by the Christian Health Association of Lesotho (CHAL), lack of resources, accountability, attitude and quality of care remain major challenges.
This was revealed by the Minister of Health, Mr. Selibe Mochoboroane, when appearing before the Portfolio Committee on the Social Cluster during ongoing ministerial consultations on the 2026/2027 annual budget.
Mr. Mochoboroane said some expectant mothers continue to lose their lives in the hands of health workers due to poor attitude, adding that health personnel are often not held accountable in cases where negligence has occurred.
He said while the ministry is working tirelessly to address these challenges, it continues to closely monitor statistics related to maternal deaths in order to improve maternal health services.
The minister further indicated that the ministry, in partnership with the Christian Health Association of Lesotho, has established simulation centres in 19 hospitals across the country aimed at improving quality of care by equipping health workers with practical skills.
He noted that these interventions are beginning to yield positive results, as the number of maternal deaths has shown a decline.
Meanwhile, a report from the Christian Health Association of Lesotho shows that no maternal deaths were recorded in CHAL hospitals during the 2025/2026 financial year. However, a total of 11 neonatal deaths were reported, including three at Seboche Hospital, two each at Mamohau, Scott and St Joseph’s hospitals, and one each at St Leonard and Paray hospitals.
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