The Midwives Association of Kenya (MAK) celebrated the culmination of Midwives Week in Kisumu with the official launch of their Kisumu branch. The event, held at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), highlighted the association’s commitment to both quality midwifery care and environmental sustainability.
Planting Seeds for a Healthier Future
Kisumu midwives shared their experiences in mitigating climate change within their facilities, drawing inspiration from The Aga Khan Hospital Kisumu’s practice of gifting mothers with fruit tree seedlings upon childbirth. The launch ceremony itself saw midwives challenged to plant at least 30 fruit trees at their respective institutions. JOOTRH, the event host, benefitted from this initiative as participants planted 30 trees to mark the association’s establishment.
Addressing Diaper Waste and Promoting Natural Practices
Discussions focused on the environmentally-unfriendly disposal of used diapers. The association emphasized the need to educate mothers on proper disposal methods and the benefits of allowing diaper-free time for their children. This simple practice promotes fresh air exposure and reduces overall diaper waste.
Strengthening Maternal and Neonatal Care
MAK remains at the forefront of providing professional maternal and neonatal care. Their mission focuses on reducing postpartum hemorrhage and supporting home births in challenging situations, such as floods that limit access to healthcare facilities. The association aligns itself with the “Until No Mother Dies” slogan, encouraging midwives to relentlessly strive for safe deliveries. Additionally, MAK promotes breastfeeding and discourages the use of processed milk.
Comprehensive Care through Five Key Programs
MAK offers a comprehensive approach to mitigating maternal mortality through five key programs:
- Postpartum Hemorrhage Management: Introduction of PPH emergency kits to expedite midwifery care.
- Safe Abortion Measures: Ensuring access to safe abortion procedures.
- Ultrasound Access: Improving prenatal care through access to ultrasound technology.
- A Thousand Days of a Child: Promoting optimal health throughout a child’s first 1,000 days.
Environmental Responsibility Beyond Planting Trees
MAK recognizes the importance of environmental education and awareness. Proper waste disposal, particularly regarding diapers and the use of decomposable materials, was a key discussion point. Partnering with the White Ribbon Association (WRA), MAK aims to further reduce emissions through carbon offsetting initiatives like afforestation and deforestation projects.
Collaboration for Improved Maternal Care
The association emphasized the need for collaboration between midwives, healthcare professionals, NGOs, and government entities. Regular meetings to assess members’ well-being and financial support for improved maternal care services were identified as key areas for collaboration.
A Celebration of Beginnings
The launch concluded with a celebratory cake-cutting in the conference hall. The cake’s symbolic colors – purple, green, and white – represented royalty, a healthy environment, and peace, respectively. A group photo captured the joyous occasion, with everyone chanting the powerful slogan “Until No Mother Dies.”
The event was graced by the presence of Dr Don Sunday Ogolla Director of Medical Services Kisumu County as well as the national representation of MAK, led by Dr Sally Ononje. Miss Rosebella Apollo is the current chair of the MAK Kisumu Branch. The event had support from KMET, White Ribbon Alliance, and a membership comprising midwives working in various hospitals in Kisumu.
