All but 6000 of the estimated 500,000 women who die of causes related to pregnancy and childbirth each year live in the developing countries. The Regional Conference on Maternity Without Risks in Sub-Saharan Africa has called for a 50% reduction in maternal morbidity and mortality by the year 2000. The conference was held in Niamey, Niger, in early 1989. Among proposals of the conference were review of all laws constituting obstacles to programs for promotion of women and family planning, identification of dangerous health beliefs and practices, and consolidation of traditional practices favorable to maternal health. The conference recommended that family planning, sex education, and family life education programs be made generally available, supported by information programs for men in particular concerning problems related to procreation. Health services should be systematically utilized in providing family planning and family life education.