This archive report was first published on 10 May 2021.
On May 10, 2021, Safaricom Foundation officially opened the refurbished newborn and maternal high dependency units at Kenyatta National Hospital's Othaya branch in Nyeri County.
The renovated units, which were funded at a cost of KES 15 million, will increase the capacity at the Newborn unit from 10 to 20 infants and introduce a 4-bed maternal high dependency unit (HDU).
According to Joe Ogutu, Chairman of Safaricom Foundation, the renovated units aim to transform the lives of mothers and newborns in Nyeri and nearby areas by increasing access to quality health services.
‘Through these renovations, we aim to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, encourage skilled deliveries, and decrease maternal and neo-natal complications’, said Joe Ogutu.
The newborn unit has been equipped with ventilators, heaters, and baby cots, while the maternal HDU received patient monitors, cardiac monitoring equipment, as well as furniture and stationery for medical staff.
Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe praised Safaricom Foundation for their tireless efforts in maternal and child health, stating, ‘We strongly believe that accomplishing the important mission of affordable and quality healthcare for all requires robust collaboration between the government and private sector. Safaricom Foundation remains one of our strongest partners and we remain ever grateful for their tireless efforts, not only in maternal and child health, but in healthcare in general’.
