By Lorraine Anyango and Sherine Atieno.

 In a significant step towards improving maternal health outcomes, midwives from across the county have committed to treating mothers with dignity and kindness. Led by Dr. Don Sunday Ogolla, Director of Medical Services, and Mr. Fredrick Olouch, Director of Public Health, the midwives signed a pledge at a ceremony held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH).

The pledge comes in response to a survey conducted in April 2024 that revealed alarming rates of obstetric violence in Kenya. According to the survey, 44% of mothers reported experiencing abuse due to disregard of their needs and pain, while 36% were subjected to verbal abuse and humiliation. Other forms of abuse included dehumanizing treatment (32%), neglect and denial of care (19%), unsanitary maternity settings (17%), and invasive practices (12%).

The midwives’ commitment is a crucial step towards addressing these issues and ensuring that every mother receives the respectful care she deserves. By fostering a culture of respect and compassion, the midwives aim to create a more supportive and empowering environment for women during childbirth.

The event was organized in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, USAID MOMENTUM, and the White Ribbon Alliance (WRA). The participants discussed the importance of self-care for both mothers and newborns, emphasizing the need for healthcare providers to prioritize education on self-care practices.

Dr. Ogolla and Mr. Olouch reaffirmed the county’s commitment to providing dignified maternal care, stressing the importance of transparency, accountability, and teamwork. They also highlighted the need for improved chronic care services to address the rising prevalence of chronic diseases in the region.

The pledge by the midwives is a positive step towards improving maternal health outcomes in Kisumu County. By implementing this commitment into tangible actions, the county can create a more supportive and empowering environment for mothers and newborns.