The Department of Health and Sanitation, in partnership with the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), will conduct a three-year study to identify the gaps in maternal care in Turkana.
The study is meant to root out the causes of anaemia among pregnant women, pioneer innovative intervention methods, and ultimately aim to set a new benchmark in maternal care in the county.
Chief Officer for Medical Services, Dr. Gilchrist Lokoel, said that the county would support any research that would further the Governor’s 4th Agenda.
“Our unwavering support is to ensure that every citizen receives the highest possible and attainable quality health standards. I believe that no woman should lose her life while bringing forth another,” said Dr. Lokoel.
In 2014, Turkana was reporting 1,594 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births; in 2022, that figure has drastically dropped to 381.
He added that the County Health Department’s commitment to improving maternal healthcare remained unwavering and hoped that the research would serve as a guiding light towards that end.
Dr. Benjamin Odongo, Ag CEO and KOGS/LDI National Coordinator, pointed out the study would begin at Lodwar County Referral Hospital and then expand to other sub-county hospitals.
The Ag Director for Medical Services, Alice Akalaptan, pointed out that Turkana is faced with unique challenges, from teenage pregnancies and widespread gender-based violence to a marked blood shortage.
Present were Joyce Illikwel (Ag Director Administration), Nancy Nyanga (Deputy Director Administration and Partnerships), David Ekai (Ag.Director, Clinical Services), Dr. Patrick Omondi (LCRH Obs Gyn Specialist), Mr. Benjamin Lowoko (Chief Medical Laboratory Specialist), and James Mwangi (Principal Nursing Officer).
By Peter Gitonga
