A woman in Kenya today can expect to live a longer, healthier life than her mother did. Yet, the country can do better.
Deep inequalities in healthcare remain, especially for women in rural areas. The government must act to ensure every woman gets the care she deserves.
First, maternal health must be improved. Kenya’s maternal mortality rate stands at 355 deaths per 100,000 live births.
In some regions, it rises to over 1,000. Many of these deaths are preventable. Hospitals lack essential equipment, and women struggle to access skilled care.
The government must invest more in maternal health to ensure safe childbirth for all women. Second, family planning services must be expanded.
Kenya’s fertility rate has dropped from nearly eight children per woman in the 1970s to about three today. However, many women still lack access to contraceptives.
Some are limited by cultural and religious restrictions. Others live too far from health facilities. Without proper family planning, women cannot control their reproductive health or economic future.
This is why we must strengthen outreach programmes and ensure contraceptives reach all women, regardless of location or background.
Many women report abuse during childbirth, neglect in hospitals and discrimination when seeking care. This discourages them from seeking medical attention.
The government must train health workers on respectful care and establish strong complaint-handling systems to protect patients.
Kenya has made progress, but more must be done.
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Quote of the day: “To reach your goal, remember that courage is the only antidote for danger.” — American detective writer Erle Stanley Gardner died on March 11, 1970
