WHO donates Ksh.43M equipment to Kenya to boost maternal and women's health services

The equipment was handed over by WHO Representative Dr. Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo and received by Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga during a ceremony at Kenyatta National Hospital, where he also flagged off the distribution of the equipment to beneficiary health facilities.

The 108 electric obstetric theatre beds will be distributed to 45 health facilities across 11 priority counties to bolster emergency obstetric and newborn care services. Cancer screening, diagnostic, laboratory, pathology and treatment equipment will additionally be provided to eight health facilities in Bungoma and Nyandarua counties to enhance the prevention, early detection and management of cervical and breast cancer.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Oluga said the donation reinforces the Government's efforts to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes under the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere Acceleration Plan, launched by President William Ruto in May 2026.

He noted that investments in quality maternal healthcare and cancer services are essential to reducing preventable deaths, improving patient outcomes and advancing Universal Health Coverage.

The Principal Secretary also highlighted progress under the Women's Integrated Cancer Services Project, a tripartite partnership between the Ministry of Health, WHO and Roche that integrates breast and cervical cancer screening into primary healthcare services. To date, 8,440 women have been screened for breast and cervical cancer and selected non-communicable diseases through the initiative, with the newly received equipment expected to further expand access to screening, diagnosis and treatment services.

Dr. Oluga called on beneficiary counties and health facilities to ensure proper utilisation, maintenance and accountability of the donated equipment to maximise its impact on healthcare delivery for women and newborns.