Community Health Worker Programmes and Maternal Mortality: Evidence from KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

This study examines the effectiveness of community health worker programmes in reducing maternal mortality rates within KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were collected through cross-sectional surveys conducted in and analysed using logistic regression models to determine the relationship between CHW programmes and maternal mortality reduction. The study utilised a stratified sampling method to ensure representation across different geographic regions and socio-economic levels. CHWs significantly increased access to antenatal care, leading to an increase in the proportion of women receiving recommended services from 40% to 65%. This trend was associated with a reduction in maternal mortality by 18%, although specific confidence intervals for this finding are not provided. The findings suggest that CHW programmes play a crucial role in improving access to maternal health services and reducing maternal mortality rates. Future research should focus on replicating these results across different regions and expanding the scope of interventions. Health policymakers should prioritise the expansion and sustainability of CHW programmes, particularly in underserved areas where maternal mortality is highest. Additionally, training programmes for CHWs should emphasise comprehensive care coordination to enhance service effectiveness. Community Health Workers, Maternal Mortality Reduction, Cross-Sectional Study Treatment effect was estimated with logit (pᵢ) =₀+^ Xᵢ, and uncertainty reported using confidence-interval based inference.