By IP Reporter
Trans Nzoia County health officials and community health promoters among other stakeholders have pledged stronger support for maternal health services after identifying cultural, economic and geographic barriers that continue to hinder women from accessing health care services.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the USA AID AMPATH Uzima board room,Trans Nzoia County Chief Officer for Health and Sanitation, Dr. Judith Simiyu said many expectant mothers still struggle to attend antenatal clinics on time.
“We have seen delays caused by cultural norms where men dominate decision-making, poverty that limits transport, and poor roads especially during the rainy season,” she explained.
Dr. Simiyu noted that even when Community Health Promoters (CHPs) refer clients to facilities, many fail to complete their visits.
“CHPs are doing their part identifying, educating and referring. But without addressing these barriers, referrals don’t always translate into timely care,” she said.
Community Health Coordinator Pamela Semo echoed the concerns, stressing that CHPs remain central to improving maternal health.
“We are prioritising CHPs in the upcoming budget. Their work is vital, and the county leadership is committed to supporting them,” she said.
Semo added that late attendance and incomplete antenatal sessions remain a major challenge.
“Clinics report about 70 to 81 mothers attending ANC, but many come late or miss follow-up visits. This is a priority we must tackle,” she said.
AMPATH Uzima, RMNCAH/WASH program manager Nobra Mutuku accompanied by Magret Kamau and Boniface Onditi commended a multisectoral approach in addressing the challenges contributing to the law turn out for the maternal health care services including the involvement of tje various County departments including the public works department to improve roads, the gender office to engage men in reproductive health decisions and county budgeting to ensure resources reach CHPs.
Community health representative Mwashigadi thanked the county for convening the meeting but raised concerns over the stipend for CHPs.
“The 2,500 shillings stipend from the national and county governments is not enough, and payments are often delayed,” she said.
The stakeholders meeting concluded with a commitment to align resources and actions across sectors to improve maternal service access and ensure expectant mothers complete their antenatal care.
