The Gambia is on track in its efforts to reduce maternal mortality, the 2005 UNDP Human Development Report on The Gambia reveals.

However, the report highlighted that access to good antenatal care and specialized health facilities and referral systems have been challenges for many women of reproductive age.

The report states: “Poor infrastructure and communication facilities mean that most deliveries are done at home. Therefore, safe and healthy delivery procedures are needed to prevent women from infection and other related complications.”

The report further alluded the fact that where skilled health personnel are available, the urban areas are always at an advantage.

According to the report, the challenges to meeting this target in the rural areas will always be at a disadvantage due to poverty.

It noted that people in the rural areas lack the opportunity to access the services of skilled health personnel, explaining that Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) are available to these communities.