New Mother-Infant Clinic Opens to Boost Postnatal Care

A newly established mother‑and‑baby wing has officially opened at the St. Luke’s Orthopaedic and Trauma Hospital in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, significantly enhancing postnatal and neonatal services in the region. This 15‑bed facility, launched in partnership with the Uasin Gishu County Government, features specialised outpatient and inpatient care spaces, modern delivery rooms, and a team of skilled clinicians dedicated to maternal and newborn health.
County health officials say the new wing will help reduce complications that arise during the critical postpartum period, thanks to enhanced monitoring and counselling. The unit provides dedicated space for postnatal recovery, nutritional guidance for mothers, and early health screening for newborns — all aimed at improving survival rates and long-term health. Hospital Director Mary Lelei highlighted that the facility will also carry out health education for mothers, including best practices for caring for infants and identifying warning signs early.
Local leaders and health advocates have welcomed the development as a major milestone in county-level healthcare. First Lady of Uasin Gishu, Salina Bii, praised the initiative during the launch, noting that it underscored the county’s commitment to tackling high maternal and infant mortality rates. The expansion is also seen as a strategic move to ease overcrowding in larger public maternity units, making quality postnatal care more accessible closer to home.
Looking ahead, the facility is expected to drive down postnatal complications and improve early detection of neonatal issues. With the wing now operational, Uasin Gishu County plans to scale up similar mother‑infant clinics across its other facilities. Health officials are optimistic that this model will serve as a blueprint for other counties aiming to strengthen maternal‑child health under Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage goals.