Synopsis: CRC President advocates for improved clinical training and expanded access to medical services in rural areas.
Cambodian Red Cross President Bun Rany has urged the government to strengthen the national health system and advance universal health coverage.
She said that greater investment is needed to increase both the number and the quality of health professionals, including nurses and midwives, to meet the population’s real needs.
Rany made the remarks on International Day of the Midwife, held today under the theme “One Million More Midwives”.
“Midwives are at the heart of safe motherhood. They provide essential care during pregnancy, support safe birth, and ensure postnatal and newborn care. Their work is noble and life-saving, bringing hope to families and helping every child begin life with dignity and care. Our future depends on healthy mothers and babies,” she said.
She said that the global call for one million more midwives underscores the importance of investing in midwives as an investment in women, children, families, and society’s future.
“In response to that appeal, Cambodia has not only increased the number but also ensured that every midwife we train across all healthcare facilities receives training that meets both national and international standards, has the authority to make decisions and the resources necessary to do so, and is recognised as a leader based on their own abilities.”
She said she supports the Ministry of Health’s efforts to promote the profession, expand training, and strengthen professional ethics to reduce maternal and newborn mortality.
She added that the Cambodian Red Cross, across all 25 provincial branches, remains committed to raising public awareness of hygiene, clean water, and positive health behaviours.
“I therefore appeal to all pregnant women to seek regular health check-ups, give birth at health centres or hospitals with skilled doctors and midwives, and receive postnatal care for both mother and baby.I also call on husbands, families, communities, public institutions, development partners to support pregnant women, invest in midwives’ development and expansion, and create better conditions for skilled midwives to serve, especially in rural areas,” she said.
