Curb maternal deaths
The 47 counties have a lot of work to do, especially in healthcare delivery, which is a devolved function. It is, of course, true that many of these devolved units were literally ambushed and today still lack the capacity to fully discharge this vital service.
Quite disturbing is the revelation that there are 10 counties where mothers and babies are more likely to die. The devolution of health services under the 2010 Constitution shifted a massive responsibility to the county governments, many of which were caught completely unprepared. While some have made strides in building infrastructure, the health sector continues to face hurdles.
By the end of last month, for instance, 566 expectant mothers had died, with 3,584 perinatal fatalities reported this year. There are also many unreported maternal deaths, especially in the north-eastern counties, where burials take place immediately. Health officials concede that they are not doing so well.
Ten counties, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Nakuru, Bungoma, Kakamega and Garissa, have the highest number of maternal, neonatal and perinatal deaths each, ranging from 188 to 443 fatalities. In May, the Health ministry launched the Rapid Results Initiative in 26 counties, targeting a 15 per cent reduction in maternal and neonatal deaths and stillbirths. The government has also secured Sh10 billion in funding to reduce preventable maternal deaths.
Counties’ efforts are often hampered by National Treasury delays in releasing their equitable revenue share, hampering the purchasing of medical supplies. Frequent strikes by doctors, nurses, and clinical officers over delayed salaries and poor working conditions also disrupt services.
Many counties are struggling to improve their specialised administrative capacities. These challenges have sparked debate on whether or not an independent national commission should be entrusted with the management of the health facilities to ease the burden on counties.
Counties should invest more in health programmes to prevent maternal and neonatal deaths.
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