Bungoma County has witnessed a transformative approach to maternal and newborn health through the tireless efforts of Community Health Volunteers (CHVs) under the Maternal and Newborn Improvement (MANI) Project. In rural areas such as Namang’ofulo in Sirisia, CHVs engage pregnant women and their families in educational sessions designed to improve antenatal care, nutrition, and safe delivery practices. The initiative, supported by UK aid and managed by Options Consultancy Services, has reached thousands of residents across six sub-counties, emphasizing the life-saving importance of facility-based births.
Through interactive methods like role-plays, counselling cards, and household visits, CHVs educate expectant mothers on nutrition, the necessity of at least four prenatal check-ups, and the benefits of hospital deliveries. Volunteers like Stephen, who coordinates 100 households monthly, serve as crucial links between communities and healthcare facilities. The project also repositions traditional birth attendants as referral agents, ensuring that women who might otherwise deliver at home have access to medical care. Since its inception in 2015, MANI has trained over 520 CHVs and 100 Community Health Extension Workers, creating a structured network for community-based maternal and newborn care.
The impact of these interventions is already evident, with participants reporting increased awareness and preparedness for childbirth. Women such as Lucy, who previously faced life-threatening delivery challenges, now feel empowered to plan for safe hospital births. County officials note that the program has contributed to reducing maternal and neonatal deaths while promoting social accountability through community dialogues and upcoming scorecards. As Bungoma continues to strengthen its community health framework, the CHVs’ work not only improves immediate health outcomes but also lays the foundation for long-term, sustainable improvements in maternal and newborn care.