Kenya has recorded significant improvements in child health, with under-five mortality declining from 41 to 37 deaths per 1,000 live births.
Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale says skilled birth attendance has risen to 90 per cent, while stunting rates have dropped from 26 per cent to 18 per cent. Exclusive breastfeeding has also increased to 72 per cent.
However, neonatal mortality remains high at 19 deaths per 1,000 live births, above the national target of 12, highlighting the need for sustained investment in newborn care and nutrition.
The CS made the revelations Thursday when he held discussions with a delegation from Save the Children, led by its United States Chief Executive Officer and President, Ms Janti Soeripto, on strengthening collaboration in maternal, newborn and child health as part of Kenya’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) agenda.
He noted that the Government is prioritising quality care during childbirth through functional newborn units, neonatal resuscitation and Kangaroo Mother Care.
He added that The Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan, alongside coverage through the Social Health Authority’s (SHA) Primary Healthcare Fund, is supporting access to deliveries and essential newborn care.
The discussions focused on consolidating gains in child survival, addressing persistent gaps in newborn care and nutrition, and strengthening community-level health interventions.
