Dr Petronella Lunda Elected to Lead SOMSA North West
- Karen Scheepers
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
The Society of Midwives of South Africa (SOMSA) North West has entered a new era of leadership with the election of Dr Petronella Lunda, a maternal and neonatal health expert from the North-West University (NWU) Faculty of Health Sciences. Dr Lunda was appointed as provincial president during the 19th SOMSA Congress, held at the OR Tambo Premier Hotel in Kempton Park from 13 to 14 August.
Her three-year term will not only place her at the helm of provincial activities but also secure her position as a representative on SOMSA’s National Executive Committee.
Strengthening Networks and Structures
Dr Lunda’s immediate focus lies in consolidating the provincial structure of SOMSA North West. Among her first initiatives is the creation of a dedicated WhatsApp network to connect midwives across the province, fostering direct communication and collaboration. This will be followed by finalising the provincial executive structure through a voting process.
Once these foundations are in place, she intends to lead the development of a provincial manifesto, ensuring that all initiatives are guided by inclusivity and consultation. “All initiatives will be advanced through a consultative process to ensure inclusivity and meaningful impact across the province,” she stated.
Vision for Transforming Maternal Care
Dr Lunda has outlined a strategic set of goals to enhance maternal and neonatal health services in the North West. Central to her vision is knowledge-sharing and skills development.
Annual Online Lecture Series – to provide midwives with evidence-based practices accessible to professionals across the province.
Biannual In-Person Workshops – creating opportunities for networking, peer exchange, and collaborative problem-solving.
Supportive Platforms – to celebrate achievements, address challenges, and inspire midwives in their daily practice.
Promoting Respectful Maternity Care
A highlight of Dr Lunda’s presence at the SOMSA Congress was her presentation on respectful maternity care. She emphasized the importance of safe, dignified, and compassionate experiences for women in healthcare settings.
Her advocacy is rooted in the idea that maternity care must go beyond clinical safety, extending to the protection of women’s rights, fostering of trust, and building of confidence in medical professionals.
SOMSA’s Broader Role
The Society of Midwives of South Africa is affiliated with the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM). Its work extends beyond professional networking, as it actively participates in shaping education standards, regulatory policies, and research agendas related to midwifery.
By advocating for the rights, interests, and reputation of midwives, SOMSA plays a crucial role in strengthening the profession and safeguarding maternal health outcomes in South Africa.
A Step Forward for North West Province
Dr Lunda’s election represents both recognition of her expertise and a commitment to advancing maternal and neonatal care within the province. With her blend of academic excellence, clinical knowledge, and passion for compassionate care, her leadership is expected to leave a lasting impact on both midwives and the communities they serve.
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