Parents of newborn triplets express joy, ask for assistance

Faith Kananu (centre), her husband Patrick Muthuri and neighbours at their home in Kibiichia, Meru County.  [Phares Mutembei, Standard]

Just under three weeks ago, Faith Kananu was already a mother of three. Then, last month, she welcomed triplets.

When The Standard visited her family at Kathuine village in Kibirichia, Meru County, Ms Kananu was still pleasantly surprised by the arrival of the new bundles of joy.

Kananu, 37, and her husband, Patrick Muthuri, 44, had previously been blessed with three daughters, aged 14, 11, and five. "It came as a big shock when I delivered three boys through caesarean section on July 17,” she said.

Kananu said that she was unaware she was carrying triplets when she went into labour at 39 weeks. A neighbour rushed her to Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital where a scan revealed that she was expecting three babies.

"I was shocked, but God gave me strength. I delivered my boys who are all in good health,” she said.

The surprise babies were given the names Braving Kithinji, Brafin Muguna, and Briton Mureti by the couple.

Kananu expressed her gratitude to neighbours who she said were willing to help because she has her hands full.

"When the boys cry at the same time, I have to breast-feed them in turns,” she said, adding that due to the high cost of milk, she is unable to provide them with as much as she would like.

"I am trying my best, but I am also appealing to the county government and well-wishers to come and help me take care of my babies."

She said the family did not pay anything at the hospital. "The doctors took very good care of me and the babies, but now I worry about how to feed and raise them."