Joseph Calls for Stronger Regulation and Investment in Midwifery Workforce
Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph is calling for deeper regulatory reform and greater investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s midwifery workforce, saying education alone will not achieve the country’s goals for safer motherhood and newborn care.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day Competency-Based Education Capacity-Building Workshop for Midwifery Educators, Joseph said that while training programs are essential, they must be supported by broader policy action and institutional backing. He noted that achieving these goals “requires more than training programs,” but also “investment in human resources, strengthening of regulatory frameworks, and creation of an environment that allows midwives to work to the full extent of their education and skills.”
Joseph described the new midwifery workshop as a critical step toward empowering educators who “shape the future midwives of our nation,” while strengthening institutions and ensuring quality assurance aligned with international standards such as the International Confederation of Midwives’ Essential Competencies (2019).
He reaffirmed that maternal and newborn health remains a national priority because it is “a cornerstone of national development, social equity, and human dignity.” He added that every woman should have access to high-quality, safe, and compassionate care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, and that every midwife should be empowered, supported, and respected in her role.
The minister also praised the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Caribbean Regional Midwives Association for their technical support, resources, and guidance, which have enabled countries like Antigua and Barbuda to strengthen systems, improve curricula, and expand capacity.
The workshop, hosted by the Ministry of Health in partnership with UNFPA, focuses on competency-based education (CBE) — a hands-on training model that prepares midwives to meet real-world challenges with skill, confidence, and compassion. Joseph said the initiative reflects government’s vision of a health system where educators are equipped to deliver measurable improvements in maternal and newborn outcomes.
He concluded by reaffirming that the Ministry will continue working with partners to ensure midwives have the policy, resources, and institutional support needed to practice effectively and contribute fully to national development.
