CARMMA Plus is an enhanced continental campaign led by the African Union to accelerate the reduction of maternal, newborn, and child mortality in Africa. It builds on the original CARMMA (Campaign for Accelerated Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa) initiative by integrating broader sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) priorities.
CARMMA stands for the Campaign on Accelerated Reduction of Maternal Mortality in Africa. The “Plus” in CARMMA Plus reflects the expanded focus on newborn, child, adolescent health, and nutrition.
CARMMA Plus was launched to align with Africa’s current health and development priorities, address unfinished business from CARMMA, and accelerate progress toward the health-related targets of the Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
CARMMA Plus is coordinated by the African Union Commission, specifically the Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development, in partnership with AU Member States, UN agencies, development partners, and civil society.
While CARMMA focused mainly on reducing maternal mortality, CARMMA Plus expands to include newborns, children, adolescents, and nutrition, and places greater emphasis on accountability, equity, partnerships, and country ownership.
All 55 African Union Member States are encouraged to adopt and implement CARMMA Plus. The campaign is designed to be adapted and owned at the national level to address country-specific priorities.
The campaign is built on five pillars:
- Leadership & Governance
- Strategic Partnerships
- Evidence-based Advocacy
- Accountability & Monitoring
- Community Engagement
Organizations and individuals can support CARMMA Plus by partnering on advocacy initiatives, funding or technical support, engaging communities, and amplifying messages through media, networks, or policy spaces.
Yes, CARMMA Plus promotes youth engagement through the inclusion of young people in advocacy, program design, and decision-making processes particularly in matters affecting adolescent health and wellbeing.
You can stay updated through the official CARMMA Plus website, follow our social media pages, or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates, resources, and country progress reports.