Evaluating a Community Health Worker-Led Group Antenatal Care Model for Birth Preparedness Knowledge in Mopti, Mali: A Qualitative Study

Maternal mortality remains high in Mali, with pronounced disparities in rural regions such as Mopti. Individual antenatal care models often face challenges regarding accessibility and depth, potentially limiting knowledge of birth preparedness and complication readiness. This study explored the perceived effectiveness of a community health worker-led group antenatal care model on improving birth preparedness knowledge among pregnant women in the Mopti Region. A qualitative, descriptive study was conducted. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with purposively sampled pregnant women who had participated in the model. Community health workers facilitating the groups were also interviewed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Participants reported increased knowledge across key components of birth preparedness. A prominent theme was the empowerment derived from shared learning within the group setting, which contrasted with the passive reception of information in individual consultations. Most participants could list essential items for a birth kit and identify several danger signs, knowledge they attributed to the group discussions. The community health worker-led group model was perceived as an effective strategy for enhancing birth preparedness knowledge in this rural Malian context. The participatory, group-based approach appeared to facilitate a deeper understanding and retention of information. Programme planners should consider integrating and scaling up this model within maternal health strategies for similar resource-limited settings. Further research should investigate the model’s impact on tangible health outcomes. Maternal health, antenatal care, community health workers, birth preparedness, qualitative research, Mali, group care This study provides qualitative evidence on the perceived value of a community-based, group antenatal care model led by non-specialist health workers in a rural African setting, highlighting its role in knowledge acquisition through participatory learning.