Kakamega Takes Bold Steps to Combat Maternal Deaths from Postpartum Hemorrhage

By Strilus Bellbut 

Kenya records approximately 5,000 maternal deaths annually, with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) emerging as the leading cause of these fatalities, according to the Ministry of Health. 

Despite significant strides in maternal healthcare, 14 women still die every month during childbirth, casting a grim shadow over the country’s reproductive health sector.

Dr. Edward Serum, Head of Reproductive and Maternal Health at the Ministry of Health, recently disclosed that counties such as Tana River, Garissa, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Machakos, Homa Bay, Siaya, Wajir, Kilifi, Murang’a, Makueni, Migori, and Turkana report the highest maternal deaths, largely due to excessive bleeding after childbirth.

Postpartum hemorrhage, defined as the loss of at least 500ml of blood within 24 hours of delivery, affects about 5% of all women giving birth worldwide, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

Determined to stay ahead of the crisis, the Kakamega County Government has entered into a partnership with Lwala Community Alliance, a non-governmental organization committed to reducing maternal mortality.

Speaking on January 28th at Kakamega County General Hospital after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Julius Mbeya, CEO of Lwala Community Alliance, emphasized the importance of collaboration in tackling PPH.

"It is a privilege to be here in Kakamega today. The signing of this MoU is a major milestone in our efforts to end PPH, a leading cause of maternal deaths globally," said Mbeya.

He commended Kakamega County for making significant progress in maternal healthcare, highlighting that 90% of nurses in the county are well-trained, ensuring safe deliveries for expectant mothers.

"Unlike the counties experiencing a surge in maternal deaths, Kakamega has taken progressive steps to reduce mortality through a well-equipped health system. As Lwala Community Alliance, we are committed to strengthening these efforts, just as we have in Homa Bay and Migori," he added.

Representing Governor Fernandes Barasa, County Executive Committee Member for Health, Peninah Mukabane, expressed gratitude to Lwala Community Alliance for recognizing Kakamega’s commitment to improving maternal health care.

"Ending PPH is possible if we all play our part. As a county, we have adopted key measures, including equipping our health facilities with Nasgic (Non-Pneumatic Anti-Shock Garments), capacity-building for health workers through mentorship programs, and joint monitoring and evaluation," Mukabane said.

The MoU signing was also attended by Dr. David Alilah, Chief Officer for Medical Services, and Rose Muhanda, Chief Officer for Public Health, among other dignitaries.

With strategic partnerships and strengthened healthcare systems, Kakamega County is proving that maternal deaths can be prevented, offering a glimmer of hope in the fight against postpartum hemorrhage.