Homa bay: Health facilities whose negligence contributes to the deaths of mothers and newborns during childbirth could face hefty fines and jail terms if a Bill proposed in Parliament becomes law. The Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill, introduced by Nominated Senator Beatrice Ogolla, aims to hold health facilities and practitioners accountable for preventable deaths in maternity wards. Those found negligent could face fines up to Sh1 million or a maximum of five years in prison.
According to Kenya News Agency, Senator Ogolla, speaking at a public sensitisation forum in Ndhiwa, emphasized the necessity of the legislation to reduce maternal and child deaths, a significant concern in parts of the country. The Senate has debated and passed the Bill, which now awaits consideration by the National Assembly. Senator Ogolla urged Members of Parliament to approve the legislation, asserting it would protect mothers and children from preventable deaths and enhance accountability within the health sector.
Homa Bay County is among the areas with high maternal and child mortality rates, with maternal deaths ranging between 516 and 583 per 100,000 live births, compared to the national rate of 355 to 488 deaths per 100,000 live births. The 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey reports Homa Bay’s neonatal mortality rate at 31 deaths per 1,000 live births and infant mortality at 42 deaths per 1,000 live births.
The Bill also suggests closer monitoring of expectant mothers throughout pregnancy and after delivery. Women who miss scheduled hospital visits would be followed up to ensure they receive necessary care. Senator Ogolla highlighted that early preparation and regular medical care could prevent complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
The proposed law outlines maternal health services that should be accessible during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum, catering also to expectant mothers with disabilities. Senator Ogolla stressed the importance of continued support for mothers post-birth, rather than solely focusing on infants.
Mark Okundi, a communication and advocacy officer at MSI Reproductive Choices, highlighted existing barriers preventing women from accessing reproductive health services, such as difficulty obtaining preferred family planning methods and medicine shortages. He stated that the Bill could alleviate these issues and enable hospitals to maintain adequate medicine stocks.
Homa Bay County medical outreach coordinator Molly Ochar noted the importance of easy access to healthcare services for pregnant women. The county government collaborates with community health promoters to connect expectant mothers with health facilities for safe delivery services.
