At just 20 years old, Ayda Ynuse from Homosha Woreda in the Assosa Zone of Ethiopia’s Benishangul-Gumuz Region has already experienced both the challenges and triumphs of young motherhood. Recently completing her secondary education, Ayda dreamed of continuing her studies. But life took a different turn two years ago, when she married her husband, Sali Mohammed, a hardworking daily laborer, and soon after began the journey toward motherhood.

As her first pregnancy progressed, Ayda understood the importance of receiving quality antenatal care. Excited but anxious, she had heard encouraging stories from friends about Homosha Health Center, particularly about the dedicated midwives and the Maternity Waiting Home, a special facility designed for expectant mothers close to delivery.

A safe space for mothers-to-be

The Maternity Waiting Home, supported by UNFPA through the Ethiopian Midwives Association (EMwA) under the Canada-backed project “Humanitarian SRH Assistance in Sub-Saharan Africa,” provides accommodation and care for women from remote areas or with high-risk pregnancies. For Ayda and Sali, it offered reassurance that she would be in good hands.

At the health center, Ayda met Midwife Tilahun Tamene, one of the skilled professionals deployed through EMwA with UNFPA’s support. His calm and caring approach immediately put her at ease. He listened patiently, answered her questions, and guided her throughout her pregnancy, giving Ayda the confidence that she and her baby would be safe.

When her due date approached, Ayda moved into the Maternity Waiting Home. For three days she stayed in a supportive environment with other expectant mothers, under the close care of midwives. On the fourth day, she gave birth to a healthy baby boy. She named him Efraz, meaning “happiness,” a name that perfectly captured the joy he brought to her and her husband.

Looking ahead with hope

Ayda expressed deep gratitude for the care she received, crediting Midwife Tilahun and his colleagues for ensuring her safe delivery. Their dedication, she said, made all the difference.

The positive experience at Homosha Health Center inspired Ayda to look to the future with renewed hope. With her son in her arms and her health safeguarded, she dreams of resuming her education, determined to build a brighter life for both herself and Efraz.