The Ministry of Health estimates that approximately 6,300 women die each year during pregnancy and childbirth in Kenya, a tragic toll that underscores the urgent need for improved healthcare services.
But fortunately, for Magadi, different health stakeholders have stepped up safe birth sensitisation forums a notch higher resulting in dozens of women seeking services from Magadi Hospital.
A spot-check by the Standard established that several expectant mothers from far-flung areas are now flocking to the facility.
The 55-bed capacity modern health facility owned by Tata Chemicals Magadi attends to at least 23 inpatient cases, 100 outpatient cases daily.
Several beneficiaries told The Standard that the hospital has reduced mother-child deaths during birth that were common previously.
"In the past, expectant mothers bore the major brunt of home deliveries in the hands of traditional midwives forcing us to accept and embrace hospital births," Said Ms Jennifer Nanto.
Dr Raymond Birya said the hospital at least 153 inpatient monthly admissions and 21 deliveries.
He said although the majority have not been to school, stakeholder engagements have played a key role in ensuring that the mothers follow up on their child's vaccination calendar.
"Maternal mortality has reduced to almost zero. The facility is keen on child welfare clinics and sensitisation programs on the importance of hospital births. Mothers are now keen on children's immunization calendar," affirmed Dr Birya.
To him, the facility is a "saviour" for the poor residents who initially depended on traditional medicine.
"Tata Chemicals Magadi has brought medical services close to people on subsidized rates. We have cases of the company footing bills of extremely needy patients," he said.
Dr Birya however noted that the use of contraceptives, sensitization to preventive diseases and nutrition are said to be a major challenge to the locals.