Across Nigeria, thousands of pregnant women are preparing for childbirth with something many of us take for granted – the knowledge, support and basic supplies needed for a safe birth.
Together, the Birthing Kit Foundation Australia (BKFA) and the Rotary Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health (RMCH) distributed 11,650 Clean Birth Kits across four states and the Federal Capital Territory during 2025/26.
Alongside the practical support of a Clean Birth Kit, the partnership helps women feel prepared, supported and confident before one of life’s biggest moments.
From around seven months of pregnancy, community health workers begin visiting women in their villages and neighbourhoods. It’s an opportunity to answer questions, ease fears and help women prepare for the birth of their baby.
By the time labour begins, more women know where to go, what to expect and have a Clean Birth Kit ready to take with them when the time comes.
Rather than supplying kits directly to hospitals or traditional birth attendants, Rotary RMCH places the kits directly into the hands of expectant mothers, giving them the confidence to give birth in a health facility supported by skilled nurses and midwives.
One nurse recently shared the story of a woman she met during a community outreach visit.
Months later, the woman arrived at her local health facility in active labour, carrying the Clean Birth Kit she had received during that earlier visit. The nurse immediately used the sterile supplies to assist with the delivery.
Mother and baby both returned home safely.
It’s a simple report, but it captures exactly why these community visits matter. When women are prepared before labour begins, they’re ready for a safer birth when the moment finally arrives.
“The fact that these clean birth kits have enabled mothers – especially those unable to afford delivery packs – to give birth safely is a powerful testament to the impact of targeted donations. It’s not just about the Cean Birth Kits themselves, but about the dignity and security they provide to families during such a critical moment.”
Daniela Kaempfe
Project Manager, Rotary Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health