On Wednesday 5th May 2010, the Dominica Nurses Association for the first time observed International Day of the Midwife.  The celebration took the form of an award ceremony where 2 midwives were recognized.

Mrs Bernadette John (Ma Benoit) a Kalinago (indigenous/Carib) woman from Salybia a hamlet in the Carib Territory, was awarded for her invaluable contribution as a traditional midwife/chasse femme to the Carib people of Dominica.  The other awardee was Mrs Eugenia Elwin former Midwifery Tutor of the Dominica State College – she was the first local Midwifery Tutor and was awarded for her 27 years contribution to Midwifery Education in Dominica.

In 2009 the Midwifery Class of the Dominica State College interviewed Mrs John to obtain information on the history of midwifery in Dominica as partial requirement of their Introduction to Midwifery Course.

The decision to award a traditional indigenous midwife was symbolic to represent all traditional midwives (chasse femme) who no longer practice.

Mrs Bernadette John (Ma Benoit) -  Traditional Kalinago midwife

 Pictures of World Health Day Celebration 2010 in Dominica.

         Helen Royer - Health Promotion Coordinator addressing participants.

World Health Day 2010 Celebrations: Dominica

The Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Roseau City Council observed World Health Day with activities from April 6 – 11, 2010. During the period 6-10 April, Staff of the Ministry of health, Roseau City Council and other collaborating partners participated in a media campaign to raise awareness of the entire population on the benefits of physical activity and proper nutrition. The population participated through call - in programs on the radio and television.

The Ministry of Health and various stakeholders in the health sector met at a Pan American Health Organisation (PAHO) consultation on Tuesday October 6, 2009 at the Public Service Training Center to put together a new 10-year Strategic Health Plan.  

PAHO Country Program Officer

Mrs. Shirley Augustine