Work

Quality of Maternal and Newborn Care in Humanitarian and Crisis Settings in Sub‐Saharan Africa: An Umbrella Review

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: ABSTRACT Background and Aims Humanitarian crises disrupt health systems, displace populations and limit access to essential services, threatening maternal and newborn survival in Sub Saharan Africa. Review level evidence on the quality of care in these settings is fragmented. This umbrella review aimed to synthesize evidence from systematic reviews on the quality of maternal and newborn care in humanitarian and crisis settings in Sub Saharan Africa, including dimensions of quality, barriers and facilitators, quality improvement strategies, and methodological gaps. Methods We searched nine databases and grey literature for reviews published from January 2015 to March 2026 (PROSPERO CRD420261396979; PRISMA 2020). Two reviewers independently screened records, extracted data and appraised methodological quality using AMSTAR 2. Overlap of primary studies was assessed with the corrected covered area. Findings were synthesized narratively by quality dimension. No meta‐analysis or hypothesis testing was performed. Results Of 1,284 records identified, 892 were screened after removing 392 duplicates, 74 full texts were assessed, and 12 records were included. AMSTAR 2 rated 4 of 12 as high quality, 6 moderate, 1 low and 1 critically low. Quality was compromised in effectiveness, safety, respectful care, equity, continuity and system readiness. Health system and supply barriers were reported in 8 of 12 records and insecurity related barriers in 7 of 12. Workforce training was the most frequent improvement strategy (6 of 12), mostly evaluated through process outcomes; evidence on mortality impact and long term neonatal outcomes was limited. Conclusion The quality of maternal and newborn care in humanitarian and crisis settings in sub‐Saharan Africa is compromised across multiple dimensions due to insecurity, displacement, workforce shortages, damaged infrastructure, and supply gaps. Context‐specific, respectful care and health system strengthening are needed, alongside improved evidence on neonatal care and long‐term outcomes. PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD420261396979.

Source: Health Science Reports

DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.73463

Authors: Endale Tamiru Burayu, Zelalem Banjaw Zegeye, Gemechu Gelan Bekele

Institutions: Mattu University, Jimma University, Madda Walabu University

Language: English

Topic: Global Maternal and Child Health

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,280