MamaYe Ghana’s advocacy coalition makes waves

This case study is part of our book, MamaYe Evidence for Action Stories of Change: Selected Case Studies. Through illustrative case studies, we describe how Evidence for Action - MamaYe has strategically combined evidence with advocacy and accountability activities in
six countries, across Africa, and globally.

In this case study (no.6), we describe an example of decision-makers re-allocating or increasing resources to improve quality of care for women and babies as a result of our activities. In Ghana, a public demonstration by the MamaYe advocacy coalition led the Ministry of Health to resume construction of a maternity ward in a large hospital.

Another area of learning in this case study has been the conditions under which advocacy leads to a change in perception in the general public that maternal and newborn survival is an important and achievable goal, as well as greater political will towards that goal.
Following up a high-visibility demonstration in the middle of the National Council on Health in Ghana with a statistics-filled presentation evidence has been crucial in giving our advocacy activities the legitimacy to influence decision-makers.