Kwale in fresh push to decentralise healthcare services to reduce maternal mortality

Women in Kwale County have a reason to smile after the county embarked on a mission to decentralise healthcare facilities aimed at delivering quality services to the grassroots.

According to the county, is focused on ensuring expectant women can easily access antenatal care to reduce maternal mortality rate.

Speaking during the opening of Jorori Dispensary in Tsimba/Golini ward, Matuga sub-county on Friday, Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani said some maternal deaths can be prevented the expectant women deliver in hospitals.

"We have challenges of accessing health facilities in some areas because of the distance and transport costs. However, if we take these services to the people then we have a higher chance of saving lives," she said.

Many women in Kwale County especially those living in the interior deliver at home. As a result, some lose their lives when a complication arises.

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani cuts the ribbon during the opening of the Jorori dispensary on March 8, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

"Sometimes a child cannot be delivered normally and the mother needs to undergo a cesserian section. If this woman attempts to deliver at home, she risks losing her life. Others arrive at the hospital when it is too late," said the governor.

Governor Achani said the county government remains committed to making healthcare services more accessible to the citizens.

"We have been working tirelessly to decentralise healthcare facilities so that citizens can easily access quality healthcare services closer to their homes. We are proud to say that we have established 155 dispensaries, which are equipped with medicine and have qualified medical personnel across the county," she added.

Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani during the opening of the Jorori dispensary on March 8, 2024. (Photo: Mishi Gongo)

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The governor promised to ensure that residents have access to quality healthcare services and would work hard towards achieving that goal.

Governor Achani also said they have dispatched a team of community health providers to sensitise women on the importance of delivering at the hospital.

Other officials who were present at the opening ceremony were the Tsimba/Golini MCA Mwachuo, CEC Members Francis Gwama (Health), Roman Sherah (Agriculture), Karuwa Tsiwezi (PSA), and Chief Officers Dr Mjimba Kitsao (Health-Curative) and Mr Athumani Mwashando (Health-Preventive).