Reconstructing Healthcare: A Review of Challenges and Opportunities for Obstetrics and Gynaecology in Post-Conflict African States,

Obstetrics and gynaecology services in post-conflict African states face profound challenges. The destruction of infrastructure, displacement of populations, and fragmentation of health systems create a complex environment for rebuilding maternal and reproductive healthcare. This review synthesises existing literature to identify the principal challenges and potential opportunities for strengthening obstetrics and gynaecology services in post-conflict African states. It provides a structured analysis to inform policymakers and healthcare planners. A narrative review of published and grey literature was conducted. Databases were searched for relevant articles, reports, and case studies focusing on post-conflict healthcare reconstruction in Africa, with a specific focus on obstetrics and gynaecology. Thematic analysis was used to synthesise the data. Key challenges include severe shortages of skilled personnel, destroyed physical infrastructure, and weak health information systems. A critical issue was the loss of midwifery and specialist nursing cadres, which undermines emergency obstetric care. Identified opportunities include the potential for adopting digital health technologies and redesigning services around community-based, integrated models. Successful programmes often relied on task-shifting to nurses and community health workers. Rebuilding obstetrics and gynaecology services in post-conflict settings is a multifaceted endeavour requiring long-term commitment. While challenges are substantial, the post-conflict period presents an opportunity to build more equitable, efficient, and resilient health systems. Prioritise the training and retention of midwifery staff. Integrate mental health support into maternal care to address conflict-related trauma. Leverage mobile health technologies for data collection and patient follow-up. post-conflict, Africa, obstetrics, gynaecology, health systems, maternal health, reconstruction. This review consolidates evidence on the specific landscape of obstetrics and gynaecology in post-conflict Africa, offering a focused resource for stakeholders engaged in health system reconstruction.