Endline Evaluation Report | Mlinde Mama Project

This endline evaluation assessed the Group Antenatal Care (G‑ANC) model implemented in six health facilities in Geita Region, Tanzania, from 2022 to 2024. A total of 5,936 pregnant women were enrolled, with 45% attending all five recommended G‑ANC sessions. The project demonstrated significant improvements over routine ANC: 92% of G‑ANC participants completed at least four ANC visits (compared to 63% in routine ANC), and 100% received iron‑folate supplementation (vs. 96% in routine). Facility delivery rates reached 99.4%, with 99.9% live births and minimal complications. The project also enhanced knowledge of danger signs, with 88% of G‑ANC women identifying vaginal bleeding as a danger sign compared to 64% in routine care.

Qualitative findings highlighted that G‑ANC fostered strong peer support, improved communication with providers, and empowered women to self‑monitor basic health indicators (blood pressure, weight). Healthcare providers noted increased efficiency because women arrived already informed and partially assessed. The model was deemed highly relevant, with women requesting its continuation even after delivery. However, challenges included the need for additional staff, equipment, and training to meet high demand. The evaluation concludes that with sustained investment in human resources and tools, G‑ANC can be scaled nationally to improve maternal health outcomes.

The evaluation recommends scaling up G‑ANC to other regions, investing in workforce expansion and resource provision, and strengthening digital health platforms (UCS) for better tracking. Continued partnership with the Ministry of Health and local governments is essential to embed the model into routine care. For a comprehensive overview of the methodology, detailed data tables, and qualitative insights, download the full report below.