Government Launches Initiative to Improve Rural Maternal Health

The national government unveiled a package of new measures to reduce maternal and newborn deaths, signalling renewed commitment to improving maternal health especially in rural and underserved areas. Among the changes announced were the nationwide roll‑out of a standardized mortality‑tracking system (the Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response — MPDSR), strengthened referral pathways, 24‑hour theatre readiness in hospitals, improved access to oxygen and blood supplies, and emphasis on respectful maternity care.
Part of the effort involves targeted partnerships and funding aimed at counties with high maternal and newborn mortality. For example:
In one county, the government is collaborating with the Beginnings Fund Initiative, which will channel resources into high-burden facilities to strengthen capacity, infrastructure, staffing, and essential supplies.
In another region, the project dubbed Uzazi Salama (Safe Birth) was launched to improve maternal and newborn care by investing in maternity units, improving facility readiness, and supporting everyday maternal health services.
Also, counties are increasingly using innovative approaches. For instance, in Nakuru County a combination of government support and partnerships has attracted grants to improve maternal and child health at primary‑care facilities — boosting service delivery in rural and peri‑urban areas. The government says these investments — in infrastructure, staff training, referral services, and data systems — aim to bridge gaps in rural maternal health and ensure that mothers and newborns receive timely, quality, and dignified care regardless of where they live.