Lesotho: How gender-diverse midwives are shaping Lesotho's health system

The article explores how midwives of different genders are transforming maternal healthcare in Lesotho, a country facing severe shortages of skilled health workers and high maternal mortality rates. It documents the experiences of male, female and non-binary midwives working in rural and urban settings, highlighting how they challenge entrenched gender norms while providing essential care to women and newborns. 

Through personal testimonies from practitioners such as Karabo Lelimo and Seeiso Taunyane, the story shows how professionalism, empathy and respect help build trust in communities where midwifery has traditionally been viewed as women’s work. Female and non-binary midwives also reflect on stereotypes, workplace dynamics and patient preferences, illustrating how gender perceptions influence care experiences and authority within health facilities. 

The article situates these experiences within a broader national and global context, noting Lesotho’s persistent maternal health challenges, workforce shortages and policy commitments to gender equality. Drawing on perspectives from training institutions, professional associations and international health agencies, it argues that investing in a gender-inclusive midwifery workforce is critical to improving maternal and newborn health outcomes and strengthening the health system overall. 

LINK TO PUBLISHED STORY

https://www.lena.gov.ls/midwives-transform-health-care-in-lesotho/

This article, first published by Lesotho News Agency, is part of the  Media Parity Capacity Building and republished as part of the programme series.