Empowering Healthy Mothers, Thriving Children
Africa Advocacy Foundation Kenya is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of mothers and children in rural communities in western Kenya particularly in Kisumu, Siaya, Homa Bay, and Migori counties.
Working closely with healthcare providers, we provide language, faith and culturally appropriate interventions including mother mentorship, education, and resources to reduce maternal and infant mortality for women and children, particularly for young mothers.
The Maternal Health Challenge in LREB Counties
The Lake Region Economic Block (LREB) counties have some of the highest maternal and child mortality rates in Kenya. Teenage pregnancy also presents a significant health and social challenge:
Maternal mortality rate: The maternal mortality rate in parts of LREB exceeds 495 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to the national average of 362 per 100,000.
Infant mortality rate: In counties such as Homa Bay and Siaya, the infant mortality rate is as high as 64 deaths per 1,000 live births, above the national average of 34 deaths per 1,000.
Teenage pregnancy rate: Over 33% of girls aged 15-19 in LREB counties such as Homa Bay, Siaya, and Migori are either pregnant or have already become mothers. Teenage mothers are at a higher risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth, and their children are more vulnerable to health challenges.
Skilled birth attendance: Only about 52% of births in rural areas of LREB are attended by a skilled healthcare provider, leaving many women vulnerable to complications during childbirth.
Antenatal care: Fewer than 45% of pregnant women in these rural areas receive the recommended four antenatal care visits, increasing the risk of complications.
These alarming statistics highlight the pressing need to address not only maternal health but also the specific needs of teenage mothers, who face additional social and health barriers.
These alarming statistics highlight the pressing need to address not only maternal health but also the specific needs of teenage mothers, who face additional social and health barriers.
Culturally Appropriate Approaches to Maternal Healthcare
At AAF Kenya, we recognise the importance of understanding of local needs, lived experiences and unique challenges as well as cultural traditions when addressing maternal and child health and continue to explore ways, partnerships and collaborations to address these challenges.
