Baby showers are an established tradition for us. Presents are given to the expectant mother in advance. It's a joyous occasion.
Many times, the sex of the baby is known in advance. So the expectant parents can plan ahead. Even well wisher can give sex-specific cards and clothes.
In rural Congo, the expectant mother is in everyone prayers. She is probably busy preparing for a temporary halt to her normal chores.
Any celebration is planned after the birth. Any baby-names are chosen after the birth. Because, many mothers and newborns do not survive the labor and childbirth.
