BY NYANZA NEWS REPORTER
Cases of maternal and neonatal deaths considerably reduced in Kisii, Makueni and Mombasa counties due to various interventions.
This was revealed during a two-day workshop bringing together health care professionals from the three counties in Kisii town.
Dr. Ronald Nyakweba from the Ministry of Health in Kisii County said that significant progress had been made in reducing maternal and neonatal deaths in the county reaching a “30% reduction in maternal deaths and a12% drop in neonatal deaths.”
“This is a notable achievement for Kisii County,” said Dr. Nyakweba.
His Makueni counterpart, Dr. Paul Musila said these are collaborative efforts between the counties, Jacaranda health, the Council of Governors and the Ministry of Health were bearing fruits.
He emphasized that excessive bleeding and high blood pressure are the main causes of maternal deaths, urging the strengthening of referral systems to ensure timely care for mothers.
Dr. Musila said that last week, 11 deaths were reported in Makueni due to high blood pressure and called for the establishment of more facilities for premature babies, including newborn and neonatal intensive care units.
Dr. Shem Pata, the Chief Officer of Health in Mombasa County reported a success story involving a project that has reached approximately 18,000 expectant mothers.
The initiative sends short messages (SMS) to inform expectant mothers about warning signs, encourages them to seek early medical attention to prevent maternal deaths.
Dr. Pata also emphasized the importance of optimizing Social Health Assistance (SHA) and using digitalization to enhance maternal and neonatal health funding.
He noted that improved infrastructure and newborn care units have contributed to a reduction in neonatal deaths in Mombasa County.
Kisii County deputy governor, Elijah Obebo, lauded the three counties for their efforts in improving maternal and neonatal health and ensuring the sustainability of a quality ecosystem project.
He reiterated counties commitment to reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates, stressing that the goal is to eliminate such deaths altogether.
“The government has ensured that health care workers are provided with a better working environment, and we have modernized our health facilities to improve service delivery,” said Obebo.
He urged health care workers to continue working towards reducing death rates further for the good and satisfaction of the communities they serve.
