By Juliet Umeh

As Nigeria joins the global community to mark the 2025 World Health Day themed “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” global direct-selling firm QNET has reaffirmed its commitment to improving maternal and newborn health, particularly in emerging markets.

According to QNET, “With a growing footprint in the wellness and lifestyle space, we are leveraging a suite of science-led nutritional and health products to address critical gaps in maternal and neonatal care.

“Our offerings, including EDG3 Plus, a glutathione-boosting supplement, and HomePure Nova, a seven-stage water filtration system, are designed to tackle two major contributors to maternal and infant mortality: poor nutrition and unsafe drinking water.”

Maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain unacceptably high worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that 287,000 women died in 2020 from pregnancy and childbirth-related complications — with 95 percent of these deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. UNICEF adds that in 2022 alone, 2.3 million newborns died within their first 28 days of life, accounting for nearly half of all under-five child deaths globally.

QNET’s Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa, Biram Fall, emphasized the urgency of intervention. “These deaths are often preventable and reflect deep-seated health inequities. At QNET, we are committed to being part of the solution through wellness innovations that support maternal and newborn health during this critical life stage.

“Our EDG3 Plus supplement is formulated to boost cellular repair and immune function by enhancing glutathione production — a key antioxidant linked to reduced pregnancy complications. Meanwhile, our HomePure Nova system addresses the threat of waterborne diseases, which remain a leading cause of maternal and child morbidity in regions like Nigeria.”

Also speaking, Mr. Akeem Ajisafe, Managing Director of Transblue Limited, QNET’s Nigerian partner, noted: “In Nigeria, where maternal and neonatal mortality rates remain among the highest globally, QNET’s products serve as a valuable complement to conventional healthcare.

“Despite sustained interventions from government and non-governmental organizations, Nigeria still records an alarming maternal mortality rate of 512 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to World Bank data.

“QNET’s initiative not only aligns with the objectives of World Health Day but also represents a market-based response to persistent healthcare challenges. By utilizing its direct-selling model, QNET not only expands access to wellness solutions but also contributes to advocacy and awareness on preventive health.”

At a time when sub-Saharan Africa’s healthcare systems face immense pressure, such public-private partnerships are increasingly being recognized as crucial in advancing Sustainable Development Goal 3 — Good Health and Well-Being.