By Jeff Kizzilah
President Ruto
William Ruto has reaffirmed Kenya’s unwavering commitment to ending maternal and neonatal deaths, declaring that it is unacceptable for women to continue losing their lives while giving birth.
Speaking at the High-Level Heads of State Side Event themed“From Commitment to Impact – Accelerating Maternal Mortality Reduction in Africa” during the 39th Ordinary African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, President Ruto emphasized that protecting the lives of women and children is a responsibility that must be upheld without compromise.“It is unacceptable that women should continue to die while giving birth.
Protecting the lives of women and children is a responsibility we must uphold without compromise,” President Ruto stated.Bold Health Reforms UnderwayThe President highlighted Kenya’s ongoing comprehensive health reforms aimed at curbing maternal and neonatal mortality across the country.He noted that Kenya has restructured its health financing framework, expanding pre-paid access to maternal healthcare through the newly established Social Health Authority.
Through the reforms:50,000 vulnerable adolescent mothers have already received direct coverage, guaranteeing access to antenatal care, safe delivery, and post-natal services.An additional 38,000 mothers are currently being onboarded to ensure that cost is never a barrier to safe childbirth.
From Commitment to ImpactPresident Ruto called on African leaders to move beyond pledges and focus on measurable impact, stressing that sustainable financing, strong health systems, and inclusive policies are critical to saving lives.
Kenya, he said, is determined to lead by example by prioritizing maternal health, expanding universal health coverage, and strengthening frontline healthcare delivery.“Our reforms are designed to ensure that no woman, especially vulnerable young mothers, is denied safe childbirth because of financial constraints,” he affirmed.
The President reiterated that Kenya remains committed to working with African partners to accelerate progress in reducing maternal mortality and safeguarding the future of mothers and children across the continent.
