By Samuel Borlay
Traditional midwives in the Gbandi Chiefdom have asked community officials and members to accord them the necessary respect and benefits due them as a significant group within the community. The traditional midwives made the demand recently through a radio appearance on Harligee Community radio in Kolba City, Kolahun District, Lofa County.
The head of the group, Madam Molay Sheriff expressed disappointment in the men for their lack of respect towards the “343” traditional midwives in the Gbandi Chiefdom of Lofa county. In a plea apparently directed towards the Government of Liberia, specifically the Ministry of Health, Madam Sheriff highlighted the precarious situation she and her group are faced with.
Speaking via radio Harligee, Madam Sherriff said the traditional midwives are sacrificing a lot for their communities for them to be disrespected in the current form and manner. She lamented working without remuneration for a community that offers them less respect and benefits.
She, however, revealed that the only time they are respected or recognized is when the men need them to assist their wives during delivery time, adding, despite the crucial role they play in the society, the men are always in the constant habit of disrespecting the midwives.
The head of the midwives also said citizens have failed to provide the necessary support they need to perform their duties. According to her, despite concerted efforts to engage town chiefs with the aim to garner community support for these women, results have proven elusive.
Declaring a stern stance towards pregnant women delaying to access hospital facilities on time, Madam Sheriff said fines would be levied on both the women and their husbands for delaying.
Meanwhile, citizens of the Gbandi Chiefdom who called on the radio have acknowledged the contribution of the traditional midwives in the Chiefdom, and have called on the officials of government, especially politicians to support the traditional midwives.
They asserted that only God can adequately compensate these women for their vital services and urged their peers to show them utmost respect and consideration at all times.
