COUNTY, ICRH KENYA, TOUCH A LIFE HOLD EWENE POLICY REVIEW WORKSHOP
The County Government of Kakamega, through the Department of Health Services, in partnership with the International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya (ICRH Kenya) and Touch a Life, has held a multi-sectoral policy review workshop aimed at strengthening strategies for improving Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere (EWENE) services across the county.
The workshop brought together representatives from the Departments of Health Services, Roads, Finance and other relevant departments, alongside development and implementing partners, to review existing policies and strategies for improving maternal and newborn health outcomes.
The discussions focused on strengthening service delivery and reducing preventable maternal and neonatal deaths, with key areas including strengthening the county patient referral system, particularly the use of county ambulances to facilitate timely referrals; enhancing collaboration with like-minded organizations; strengthening human resource capacity; and ensuring the availability of essential maternity drugs and supplies.
Speaking during the official opening of the workshop, CECM for Health Services Dr. Livingstone Imbayi emphasized the importance of a consultative and multi-sectoral approach in addressing challenges affecting maternal and newborn health.
Dr. Imbayi noted that collaboration between different county departments and development partners remains critical in strengthening maternal and newborn healthcare services and reducing neonatal mortality across Kakamega County.
Chief Officer Public Health Mrs. Rose Muhanda Imbayi called for capacity building of existing county nursing staff on neonatal healthcare to enhance their capacity to support RAMCA services at all sub-county hospitals.
On his part, Chief Officer David Alilah committed to supporting maternity services, including capacity building for maternity staff, once resources become available.
The workshop also provided an opportunity for stakeholders to identify policy and implementation gaps and explore practical interventions that can strengthen coordination, referral systems and access to quality maternal and newborn healthcare services across the county.
The meeting was attended by the Jacaranda Health team led by Mrs. Janet Ogoyo, Chief Officer Public Works Mr. Pascal Were, Chief Officer Financial Services CPA Diminah Chikamai and respective County Directors.