Free maternity receives boost

By Caroline Rwenji

Kenya: Free maternal health care in the country has received a boost of Sh3.1 billion in the 2013/14 financial year.

National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Mr Henry Rotich announced on Thursday in Parliament that the health sector is proposed to have Sh10.6 billion, of which Sh3.1 billion will facilitate free maternal health care services that was promised to Kenyans by President Uhuru Kenyatta.

The allocation was received well by the public especially expectant mothers who since June 1, this year have been receiving free services.

 He further allocated Sh522 million for the recruitment of 30 community nurses and 10 community health workers in all the 47 counties.

Free maternity services were one of the pledges made by the President during campaigns.