Kwale, where traditional birth attendants rule

KWALE, KENYA: Binti Mohammed proudly affirms her admiration for her community’s traditions that still retain the age-old practice of giving birth at home instead of going to hospital as recommended by health authorities. “Delivering at home has been the norm in our family,” she says.

She is a resident of Kwale County where traditional birth attendants (TBAs) command a lot of influence and respect. The proud mother of five happily admits all her children were delivered at home with the assistance of traditional mid-wives.