Kirinyaga County has recorded one of its strongest improvements in maternal and newborn health in nearly a decade, with new data showing a significant rise in antenatal care attendance and a sharp decline in maternal deaths. Governor Anne Waiguru announced that antenatal coverage has increased from 45 percent to 63 percent, while maternal mortality has fallen from 88 to 55 deaths per 100,000 live births. She said the progress reflects better access to care, stronger emergency response systems, and the growing number of women seeking skilled support throughout their pregnancies. Neonatal health has also improved, with deaths within the first 28 days reducing from 26 to 10 per 1,000 live births.
According to the County Government, these gains are rooted in comprehensive reforms implemented since 2017, which have expanded access to maternal services across both urban and rural facilities. Skilled birth attendance has grown from 87 to 92 percent, supported by upgrades at Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, including a modern maternity wing, a strengthened blood centre, piped oxygen, and specialist care for high-risk pregnancies. Investments in community health outreach, faster ambulance response times—now averaging under 40 minutes—and clearer referral pathways have further ensured that mothers with complications receive timely help. The county has also recruited more than 150 health workers and conducted continuous training on emergency obstetric care, enabling medics to detect danger signs early and intervene swiftly.
Governor Waiguru noted that the county’s plan to expand operational health facilities from 65 in 2017 to 85 in the coming months will sustain the momentum and bring essential services even closer to households. She emphasized that Kirinyaga’s achievements demonstrate what consistent investment, coordination, and community engagement can deliver in safeguarding mothers and newborns. Health officials expect continued gains as new facilities open, digital health records strengthen follow-up for high-risk cases, and emergency systems are further modernized. With improved infrastructure, better staffing, and proactive outreach, Kirinyaga is positioning itself as a model county in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality in Kenya