Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh admitted an "arithmetic error" in the 2025 maternal mortality ratio he previously presented to the National Assembly in March. The discrepancy arose during data retrieval from the DHIS2 Platform. Dr. Samateh stated that the error led to the "inadvertent presentation of the institutional maternal mortality ratio" as the total maternal mortality ratio during his earlier address. This admission by Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh acknowledged a significant issue with the figures initially provided to the legislative body. The minister's statement noted the critical importance of accurate data in public health reporting and policy formulation, especially concerning sensitive indicators like maternal mortality. The initial report, which contained the erroneous figures, had been presented to the National Assembly in March, prompting the need for a public correction.
Corrected Maternal Statistics Revealed
Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh stated that the figure previously provided to the National Assembly was "inaccurate." He then presented the corrected maternal statistics for 2025. These revised figures offer a clearer picture of maternal health indicators for the upcoming year. The updated data indicates a total of 30 maternal deaths across the country. In conjunction with this, the number of live births recorded was 80,720. These two figures are key for calculating the overall maternal mortality ratio.
The minister detailed specific institutional statistics. Institutional maternal deaths were recorded at 104, reflecting deaths occurring within healthcare facilities. This specific metric contributed to an institutional maternal mortality ratio of 128.8 per 161,000 live births. This ratio specifically focuses on mortality within medical institutions. The total maternal mortality ratio for 2025, encompassing all maternal deaths whether in institutions or elsewhere, was reported as 116.1 per 100,000 live births. This full figure provides the overall measure of maternal mortality for the specified period. The presentation of these detailed, corrected statistics aimed to rectify the previous oversight and provide lawmakers with precise information.
Explanation of Data Mishap
The Health Minister, Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh, confirmed that officers responsible for providing the inaccurate information have been reprimanded. This measure was taken to address the lapse in data accuracy and ensure accountability within the Ministry of Health. Dr. Samateh also assured lawmakers that he personally conducted a calculation to verify the latest statistics before presenting them to the National Assembly. This personal verification step showed the minister's commitment to ensuring the veracity of the data shared with the legislative body. The error itself, as previously explained, occurred during data retrieval from the DHIS2 Platform, a critical system for health information management. This technical issue led directly to the "inadvertent presentation of the institutional maternal mortality ratio" as the full total maternal mortality ratio, causing the initial misrepresentation. The minister's explanation detailed the procedural breakdown that resulted in the erroneous figures reaching the Assembly.
Ministry's Response and Assurance
The Ministry of Health immediately contacted the Clerk of the National Assembly to inform the legislative body about the data error. This prompt communication was a key step in addressing the discrepancy and ensuring transparency. This communication was part of the ministry's effort to address the discrepancy in the maternal mortality figures presented earlier to the Assembly. The ministry's outreach aimed to ensure the correct information was conveyed promptly and to clarify the inaccuracies that had been presented. The swift action taken by the ministry to reach out to the Clerk showed its commitment to rectifying the record and providing accurate information to the nation's lawmakers. This proactive approach was intended to maintain trust and ensure that legislative decisions are based on reliable public health data.
