Kenya has entered a new phase in strengthening maternal and newborn health through strategic partnerships that aim to reduce preventable deaths and improve access to quality care. A major initiative is set to channel significant resources into the country, focusing on high-burden regions where mothers and newborns face the greatest risks.
As one of the first five countries selected for support, Kenya will benefit from an estimated $80 million over the next five years. This funding is part of a broader $500 million commitment targeting 10 African countries, with the overarching goal of saving 300,000 maternal and newborn lives and ensuring access to quality healthcare for 34 million women and newborns by 2030.
In Kenya, the initiative is designed to transform maternal and newborn health outcomes by concentrating efforts on facilities that account for at least half of the country’s maternal and newborn deaths as well as stillbirths. By focusing on these critical points, the program seeks to maximize impact and accelerate progress toward national and global health targets.
Priority actions under the program include scaling up evidence-based interventions, equipping facilities with essential medical tools and commodities, and strengthening the health workforce through continuous training and professional development. The initiative will also prioritize infrastructure upgrades, improve referral systems for emergency care, and establish a reliable blood supply chain to respond swiftly to complications during childbirth.
The program’s geographical reach covers 15 high-burden counties identified through national health information data between 2022 and 2024. In addition, five more counties will be included based on equity considerations and government priorities, ensuring that underserved areas are not left behind.
This comprehensive approach is expected to bridge critical gaps in maternal and newborn care by combining financial resources, technical expertise, and policy support. The emphasis on partnerships underscores the importance of aligning government priorities with global health goals while ensuring accountability and sustainability.
Ultimately, the initiative seeks not only to save lives but also to build resilient healthcare systems that can serve women and newborns for generations to come. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term capacity, Kenya is positioning itself as a leader in the fight against preventable maternal and newborn deaths in Africa.
