Counties urged to adopt AI to reduce maternal deaths

County governments and the Ministry of Health have been urged to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) and data analytics to eliminate preventable maternal deaths across the country.

Maternal mortality rates in Kenya remain at an alarming 355 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey.

Despite several efforts made to reduce the high mortality rates of both mothers and newborn babies, these rates have remained high over the past decade.

This figure is over five times higher than the Sustainable Development Goals target of 70 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births by 2030.

The MNH Big Bet programme, which seeks to bring down the number of deaths, was launched in Nairobi by Amref Health Africa.

The event brought together county governors, especially from regions with the highest maternal and neonatal mortality prevalence.

The 13 counties bearing the heaviest burden include Tana River, Garissa, West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Siaya, Makueni, Migori among others.

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"Greater investments in maternal and newborn health by all stakeholders are urgently needed to achieve the SDG targets," said Dr. Meshack Ndirangu, Amref Country Director.

According to Dr. Chris Baraza, an obstetrician-gynecologist, the leading cause of maternal deaths in the country is postpartum haemorrhage (excessive bleeding around the time of delivery).

"Out of every 100 maternal deaths in Kenya, approximately 45 are attributed to haemorrhage and related bleeding complications," he stated.

The MNH Big Bet centers around four "game-changing" interventions.

These include establishing high-response maternity units and strengthening emergency response for neonatal complications.

They also cover boosting primary healthcare and enhancing accountability systems to ensure that no mother or newborn is overlooked.