Nairobi: Kericho Woman Representative Beatrice Kemei has called on expectant mothers to embrace hospital deliveries, saying access to skilled birth attendants remains one of the most effective ways of reducing infant mortality and safeguarding the health of both mothers and newborns.
According to Kenya News Agency, Kemei, speaking at a funeral service held at Kericho Golf Club, highlighted that despite Kenya’s progress in reducing child mortality, preventable deaths during childbirth still occur. These deaths are often due to mothers delaying medical care or opting for home deliveries. She emphasized the importance of well-equipped health facilities that provide skilled healthcare professionals, emergency obstetric services, and newborn care.
Kemei stated, “We want to get rid of infant mortality. Let us improve our hospitals and encourage women to give birth in hospitals. We still have cases where complications during childbirth claim the lives of babies, yet many of these deaths can be prevented through skilled care.”
She emphasized that hospital deliveries ensure access to qualified medical personnel who can offer emergency obstetric care, newborn resuscitation, postnatal monitoring, and timely referrals in case of complications. Kemei also advocated for ongoing investment in maternity infrastructure, adequate medical equipment, and the recruitment of skilled healthcare workers to enhance maternal and newborn healthcare services in Kericho County.
Kemei urged families and communities to support expectant mothers throughout pregnancy by promoting regular antenatal clinic attendance and ensuring deliveries occur in health facilities. She noted that Kericho County has shown steady improvements in maternal and child health, reflecting the government’s sustained investment in healthcare services.
According to the latest Kenya National Bureau of Statistics County Statistical Abstract, Kericho County’s infant mortality rate is currently at 25 deaths per 1,000 live births, a significant improvement from the previous estimate of 37.8 deaths per 1,000 live births. The under-five mortality rate stands at 32 deaths per 1,000 live births, below the national average.
These improvements are attributed to expanded antenatal and postnatal care services, increased skilled birth attendance, improved immunization coverage, and strengthened community health programs. Data from the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey reveals that most births in Kericho are attended by skilled health providers, contributing to improved infant and child survival rates.
Despite these gains, health experts warn that the neonatal period-the first month after birth-remains the most vulnerable stage for newborn survival. Premature birth, birth asphyxia, infections, and delayed access to emergency obstetric care are major contributors to infant deaths, highlighting the need for skilled medical care throughout pregnancy and delivery.
Kemei emphasized the necessity of collaboration between government, healthcare providers, communities, and families to eliminate preventable infant deaths. She pointed out that public awareness campaigns, improved healthcare infrastructure, and increased access to skilled birth attendants are crucial for enhancing maternal and child health outcomes.
The government’s continued investment in modern maternity facilities, community health services, skilled healthcare personnel, and the implementation of the Social Health Authority is expected to strengthen maternal and newborn healthcare in Kericho County. As Kenya aims to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals on maternal and child survival by 2030, health stakeholders continue to encourage expectant mothers to utilize antenatal services and deliver in health facilities to ensure a healthier start for every child.
