Kenya has initiated a Sh10.4 billion (approximately US$80 million) maternal and newborn health programme designed to reduce preventable deaths among mothers and newborns, particularly in 21 high-burden counties.

The five-year initiative, supported by the Ministry of Health and the Beginnings Fund, aims to reach more than six million women and newborns by 2030. It aligns with Kenya's Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan and contributes to national targets of reducing maternal and newborn mortality.

Programme Objectives and Support

  • Enhance access to quality maternity and newborn care in nearly 200 high-volume health facilities.
  • Strengthen health systems through improved availability of lifesaving medicines, essential supplies, and modern technologies.
  • Upgrade maternity wards and newborn units, expand the healthcare workforce, and improve emergency referral systems.
  • Accelerate digital health solutions and strengthen health information systems.

The programme is backed by international partners including the Beginnings Fund, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and the Government of the United Arab Emirates, complementing ongoing government reforms under the Maternal and Newborn Health Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) launched by President William Ruto.

Government Commitment and Collaboration

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale emphasized the importance of coordinated investments that strengthen government systems rather than fragmented projects. He highlighted the need for unified planning, budgeting, and accountability frameworks between national and county governments and development partners to ensure sustainable health outcomes.

"The Ministry is championing a country-led approach to transforming the health sector," Duale said, underscoring the programme’s role in advancing Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage goals by improving access to skilled maternity care, emergency obstetric services, and quality newborn care nationwide.

Addressing Persistent Challenges

Despite progress over the past decade, Kenya continues to face high rates of maternal and newborn deaths due to preventable complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the neonatal period. This initiative aims to bridge critical gaps by enhancing skilled healthcare provision, emergency referrals, and facility readiness.