Lilian Nyiva
Government Unveils New Strategy to Reduce Maternal and Newborn Deaths
President William Ruto has officially launched the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan 2026–2028, a national roadmap aimed at ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths in Kenya.
The initiative seeks to strengthen maternal healthcare services and improve access to quality treatment for pregnant women and newborns across the country
Six-Month Rapid Results Initiative Introduced
Speaking during the launch, President Ruto announced the immediate implementation of a six-month Maternal and Newborn Health Rapid Results Initiative that will run until November 2026.
The programme is expected to focus on improving healthcare delivery in hospitals and health facilities, particularly in underserved areas where maternal and infant mortality rates remain high.
According to the government, the initiative will prioritize access to skilled birth attendants, emergency obstetric care and improved maternal health services.
Treasury Allocates Ksh4 Billion for Pregnant Women Under SHA
To strengthen maternal healthcare support, the President announced that the National Treasury will allocate an additional Ksh4 billion to the Social Health Authority (SHA).
The funds will be used to cover healthcare premiums for pregnant women, enabling them to access antenatal care, safe delivery services and postnatal treatment without financial strain.
The move is expected to support the government’s universal health coverage agenda and reduce barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable mothers.
Collaboration Between National and County Governments
The EWENE Acceleration Plan will involve collaboration between the national government, county governments, healthcare workers, development partners and community health promoters.
Officials say the partnership will help improve healthcare infrastructure, increase access to medical services and strengthen maternal and newborn care systems nationwide.
Kenya Continues Efforts to Improve Maternal Health
Kenya has made progress in reducing maternal and newborn mortality over the years, although challenges such as inadequate healthcare facilities, shortages of medical personnel and delayed emergency care still affect many communities.
The government says the EWENE Acceleration Plan is designed to fast-track interventions and improve survival rates for mothers and newborns across the country.
