Kirinyaga: Kirinyaga County has made one of its most significant health progresses with recent data showing a sharp rise in antenatal coverage and a drop in maternal deaths. Records show that antenatal attendance has risen from 45% to 63% while maternal mortality dropped from 88 to 55 per 100,000 live births in the last eight years.
According to Kenya News Agency, the shifts have been attributed to access to care earlier, more consistently, and with stronger emergency support when complications arise. Kirinyaga County Governor Ann Waiguru said the county has also made gains in reducing the number of children who die within 28 days of birth, with data showing a decrease from 26 to 10 deaths in every 1000 live births.
The improvement in maternal mortality has placed Kirinyaga among counties with the strongest improvements in the survival of mothers during births. Health sector reforms rolled out since 2017 have reshaped access to pregnancy and childbirth services across the county, marking a safer journey for mothers.
Skilled birth attendance proportions have improved, with mothers delivering in a health facility rising from 87% to 92%, and the percentage of children fully immunized by 12 months improving from 81% to 91%. The Governor highlighted the rise in antenatal coverage, indicating more women are completing the recommended four visits during pregnancy.
Efforts to strengthen the primary healthcare system have ensured that women access skilled care throughout pregnancy. The county has expanded services, equipped facilities, and ensured mothers receive attention that protects both life and wellbeing. Investments in health infrastructure, staffing, and community outreach have directly contributed to positive trends.
Improvements in referral systems, emergency response capacity, and the expansion of maternal services at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital and other sub-county facilities have been critical. Monitoring and follow-up for high-risk pregnancies have been tightened, preventing avoidable deaths.
Health workers can now identify danger signs, intervene quickly, and refer mothers needing advanced care. The Governor emphasized that no mother should lose her life giving life, crediting coordinated investment for the progress. Faster ambulance response, better-equipped hospitals, and stronger referral systems have also played a role.
Transfers now take less than 40 minutes, saving mothers facing severe complications. The recruitment of over 150 additional health workers and refresher training in maternal care has further boosted survival rates.
