About every two minutes, a woman loses her life during childbirth. This sobering statistic comes from a report by the World Health Organization (WHO). In 2020 alone, approximately 287,000 women tragically lost their lives to preventable pregnancy and childbirth-related causes. Alarmingly, 95% of these deaths occurred in lower-middle-income countries like Kenya. A stark reminder of the urgent need for improved maternal healthcare in regions where resources are scarce and healthcare infrastructure is limited.
However, there is hope. Lewa Conservancy’s healthcare programme is dedicated to transforming health outcomes in the marginalized areas of northern Kenya through community-centered strategies.
Leparua Clinic (Nuray Buzora)
A cornerstone of our approach is the collaboration with traditional birth attendants (TBAs) at the Lewa-supported Leparua Clinic.
TBAs are vital in many communities, and by working together, we bridge traditional practices with modern medical care. Women at the clinic receive care from both traditional midwives, essential in rural Kenya, and healthcare practitioners from Leparua Dispensary. This care is provided in a manyatta (traditional house), creating a welcoming and familiar environment for childbirth, similar to their homes.
Our partnership with TBAs has yielded impressive results. Through this collaboration, we have achieved a remarkable 90% increase in hospital deliveries. Additionally, we have seen significant reductions in child and maternal mortality rates, which is a testament to the effectiveness of our integrated approach. Furthermore, our efforts have led to a substantial decrease in the spread of HIV and hepatitis, showcasing how targeted interventions can improve overall health outcomes.
This success story underscores the power of blending modern medical practices with traditional knowledge. By respecting and incorporating traditional practices into our healthcare strategies, we create a more holistic and compassionate healthcare system. This approach not only addresses immediate medical needs but also builds trust within the community, leading to more sustainable health improvements.
