Infant mortality drops amid calls to ensure access to quality care

The rate of infant mortality in the country dropped, with the dip linked to interventions focusing on mother and child care.

At least 1,600 children are born prematurely each year in Kilifi County alone.

"Okoa malaika is an infant pre-term program, providing neo-natal equipment to medical facilities to ensure the well-being of mother and child," she said.

Lamu Governor Issa Timamy, who was in attendance, pushed stakeholders in the health sector need to sensitize citizens on well-being.

On her part, Kilifi Deputy Governor Flora Chibule stressed on the importance of ensuring that every child born prematurely receives quality healthcare.

According to UNICEF, preterm birth remains the leading cause of death for children under five, with an estimated 13.4 million babies born prematurely worldwide every year.