CHAK PARTNERS WITH MAKUENI TO BOOST MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH SERVICES.

The Department of Health Services in Makueni has joined hands with the Christian Health Association of Kenya (CHAK) to roll out a comprehensive reproductive, maternal, neonatal, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) project aimed at transforming healthcare delivery in the county.

The partnership seeks to expand universal access to RMNCAH and nutrition services through gender-responsive, inclusive, and sustainable health programs that will significantly improve health outcomes.

In Makueni, CHAK plans to scale up the introduction of innovative maternal and child health products while enhancing access to high-impact interventions.

The initiative is expected to contribute to a sharp reduction in maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and neonatal mortality rate (NMR).

According to Rhodah Njeru, CHAK’s Technical Advisor on RMNCH, the organization is keen on building the capacity of healthcare workers to align their practices with national MNCH guidelines, particularly in the management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and neonatal care.

Among the innovations CHAK is introducing in Makueni include:

•PPH management bundle and calibrated drapes.

• IV Iron (Ferric Carboxymaltose): A 15-minute, 1,000mg intravenous injection administered once during pregnancy, ideally in the second trimester, to address moderate and severe anemia.

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A critical respiratory support technology for premature infants, often used alongside surfactant therapy to assist babies struggling with breathing difficulties.

Welcoming the partnership, Teresia Maweu, Makueni’s Deputy County Reproductive Health Coordinator, pledged the county’s full support.She said the intervention will go a long way in safeguarding the lives of mothers and children.