Dawit Tamiru: Saving Lives Through Midwifery in Ethiopia

An assistant professor of midwifery at Haramaya University shares his personal story, the global midwife shortage, and the impact of U.S. foreign aid cuts.

"My mother's life was saved by a midwife. I knew then what I had to do."

Dawit Tamiru decided to become a midwife at age 10 after his mother experienced a retained placenta following childbirth. A midwife at a hospital removed the placenta and saved her life. He pursued midwifery and now heads the School of Midwifery at Haramaya University Hiwot Fana Comprehensive Specialized Hospital.

The Global Midwife Shortage

Research published in February 2026 by WHO experts and others found a shortage of nearly 1 million midwives worldwide. Daniela Drandić of the International Confederation of Midwives stated that all regions need more midwives, with Africa accounting for 47% of the global shortage.

A 2020 Lancet Global Health study estimated that achieving universal coverage of midwives could prevent 67% of maternal deaths, 64% of neonatal deaths, and 65% of stillbirths — saving over 4 million lives annually. Yet WHO reports that progress on reducing maternal and child deaths has largely stalled in the last decade.

Geeta Lal, global midwifery program coordinator at the United Nations Population Fund, noted Ethiopia as a country with high maternal mortality that has promoted midwifery. In 2008, Ethiopia had just over 1,000 midwives; the current estimate is over 20,000. Lal described the progress as "huge" but said more work is needed.

Tamiru's Advocacy in Ethiopia

Tamiru launched a local campaign to raise awareness of midwifery, placing posters at university gates and speaking at schools and community gatherings. He emphasized the importance of maternal and newborn health and the role of midwives.

"The more people know what midwives do, the more lives we can save."

Changes and Challenges

Tamiru observed that as the number of midwives increased over the past two decades, maternal deaths and complications have become less common in urban hospitals. However, he noted a shortage remains — especially in rural areas where over 80% of the population lives.

He recommended that the government prioritize and incentivize midwives to work in rural and hard-to-reach areas.

Male Midwives: Breaking Stereotypes

Tamiru stated that midwifery is not gender-specific and that anyone with skill, knowledge, and compassion can provide the service. In his current class, 50% of students are male and 50% female. He noted that male midwives are accepted in Ethiopia and perceived as medical personnel, though in some neighboring countries, midwives are expected to be female.

Impact of U.S. Foreign Aid Cuts

Tamiru reported that cuts to USAID funding in 2025 have negatively affected maternal health and midwifery in Ethiopia. He stated that certain drugs previously provided with USAID support — such as one for Rh-negative pregnant mothers — are now difficult to obtain, leading to fetal deaths in his public hospital.

NPR reached out to the State Department for comment but did not receive a reply by the deadline.

Personal Reflection

Tamiru said his mother was proud when he told her he would become a midwife. He stated he never considered another career.

"I never wanted to do anything else. This is who I am."