ENDING MATERNAL AND NEONATAL TETANUS IN THE GLOBAL SOUTH BY 2030: A ONE HEALTH PERSPECTIVE ON ELIMINATION STRATEGIES

Abstract

Maternal and Neonatal Tetanus (MNT) remains a preventable yet persistent cause of mortality in the Global South. Despite major progress since the 1989 WHO initiative, the goal of global elimination by 2030 is threatened by health inequities, fragile systems, and environmental exposure. This review examines MNT elimination through a One Health lens, integrating human, animal, and environmental perspectives to expose hidden transmission pathways and new intervention opportunities. It synthesizes current evidence on immunization, clean birth practices, surveillance, and community engagement, while highlighting cross-sectoral strategies such as veterinary collaboration, sanitation reform, and environmental hygiene. Drawing lessons from successful elimination programs in India, Uganda, and Senegal, the paper argues that sustainable elimination depends on multisectoral coordination, gender equity, and culturally grounded community ownership. The path to ending MNT by 2030 lies not only in vaccines, but in aligning health systems, environmental management, and social structures under a unified One Health strategy. This review highlights how integrating One Health principles can accelerate the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus in the Global South. It emphasizes cross sectoral collaboration, community engagement, and innovative technologies as essential components of sustainable, equitable strategies.