The Association of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Malawi (AOGM) has reached an important milestone in strengthening women’s health services in the country with the official accreditation of a new Obstetrics and Gynecology (OBGYN) training program by the East, Central and Southern Africa College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ECSACOG).

The accreditation followed a comprehensive review process that included approval of the training curriculum by the Malawi Medical Council and inspections of the participating hospitals. As a result, Kamuzu Central Hospital (KCH) in Lilongwe and Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) in Blantyre are now recognized as accredited ECSACOG training sites.

To prepare for the launch of the program, ECSACOG facilitated a Training of Trainers workshop for AOGM members, equipping local obstetricians and gynecologists with the skills needed to serve as trainers and mentors. This initiative ensures that the new program meets high regional standards while strengthening local capacity for specialist training.

In September 2025, AOGM welcomed the first cohort of OBGYN trainees into the newly accredited program. Training specialists locally represents a major step forward for Malawi’s health system, providing an opportunity to build a stronger workforce while reducing the cost of training abroad.

ECSACOG Year 1 registrars writing their CAT 1 exams.

With a population of over 20 million people and fewer than 100 practicing OBGYN specialists nationwide, expanding specialist training is critical to improving maternal and women’s health outcomes. This program will complement existing training efforts and contribute to increasing access to quality obstetric and gynecologic care across Malawi.

Through initiatives such as this, AOGM continues to play a leading role in advancing specialist training and strengthening the health system to better serve women and families throughout the country.