As Credo Voices launches its premiere episode, featuring Martha Agbornyenty’s inspiring story, we are reminded that change often begins with a single voice, amplified by the chorus of those who dare to listen, learn, and act.
In the bustling heart of Yaoundé, Cameroon, a gentle yet determined voice rises above the city’s hum. It belongs to Martha, a midwife whose dedication to maternal health transcends the sterile walls of clinics and pulses through the very fabric of her community. Martha’s story is not just one of medical expertise; it’s a tapestry woven with threads of empathy, empowerment, and a fierce belief in the transformative power of knowledge.
Martha’s journey began in a rural village, where the echoes of childbirth mingled with the whispers of ancient traditions. Witnessing firsthand the struggles and vulnerabilities of women during pregnancy and childbirth ignited a spark within her. “I saw women silenced, suffering in isolation,” she recalls, her eyes crinkling at the corners. “I knew I had to be their voice, their advocate.”
Driven by this unwavering resolve, Martha embarked on a path of education, defying societal expectations, and carving her own space in a male-dominated field. The journey was arduous, paved with late nights, countless exams, and the constant tug-of-war between duty and personal aspirations. But Martha persevered, fueled by the unwavering belief that every woman deserved access to quality healthcare and informed choices.
Breaking the Chains of Silence:
Back in Yaoundé, Martha’s clinic became a beacon of hope. Not just for delivering healthy babies but for fostering open conversations about maternal mortality rates – a topic often shrouded in silence and stigma. With a gentle touch and a listening ear, she demystified myths, tackled taboos, and empowered women to participate actively in their health journeys.
“Knowledge is power,” Martha emphasizes, her voice laced with conviction. “When women understand their bodies, rights, and options, they can make informed decisions for themselves and their families.”
Beyond the Clinic Walls:
Martha’s impact extends far beyond the confines of her clinic. She sits with mothers in their homes, dispelling harmful beliefs about pregnancy complications and advocating for early prenatal care. Her tireless efforts have improved maternal and child health indicators and instilled a sense of agency and self-worth in countless women.
A Ripple Effect of Change:
Thanks to the commitment of midwives like Martha, “Midwifery: knowledge, skills, and practices” has been added by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to the representative list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Intergovernmental Committee endorsed this decision, which was suggested by Colombia, Cyprus, Germany, Kyrgyzstan, Luxembourg, Nigeria, Slovenia, and Togo, during its annual conference held in Botswana on December 6, 2023.
This designation recognizes midwives as vital healthcare professionals whose expertise, abilities, and methods save lives and enhance the health of expectant mothers and newborns globally. It also confirms the necessity of promoting the practice’s preservation and the profession’s significance in culture.
Martha Agbornyenty is not just a midwife but a changemaker, a champion, and a living testament to the transformative power of compassion and knowledge. Let her story be a beacon, guiding us toward a future where every woman’s voice is heard, every right is respected, and every heartbeat is a testament to their strength and resilience.
