How Colombia’s traditional midwives serve as lifelines to rural communities

Quibdo, Colombia – Nohemí Manco was just 14 when she delivered her first baby. She had no choice but to step in.

Her sister had gone into labour, and no one else was around. Their home, in the remote Colombian municipality of Unguía, was surrounded by dense jungle canopy, waterfalls and wildlife.

But healthcare options were limited. So too was emer...