Bungoma County, with a population of approximately 1.671 million, faces significant challenges in its healthcare system, particularly in maternal and child health. The county’s poverty index stands at a staggering 52.9%, and the limited number of 256 health facilities struggles to meet the needs of its residents. With RMNCAH Network emerging as a vital advocate for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn, Child, and Adolescent Health , pushing for improved health outcomes in the region. Despite notable progress, ongoing support and commitment are essential to address persistent health challenges.

Significant Wins in Health Budget Allocation

In a remarkable achievement for the RMNCAH Network, the 2024/2025 fiscal year saw an increase in the health budget allocation to Kshs. 4.4 billion, with approval granted for 11 out of 12 key proposals. This decision reflects the county government’s acknowledgment of health as a crucial pillar for development and community well-being. In the urge to enhance maternal health services, a pivotal allocation of Kshs. 22 million is set to enhance maternity services at Mayanja, Kabula, and Ekitale health facilities. Given that Bungoma has one of Kenya’s youngest populations—with around 466,934 women of childbearing age—this investment is timely. Improved maternity services are expected to significantly lower maternal and neonatal mortality rates, ensuring safer births and healthier futures for families.

Strengthening Blood Transfusion Services

To address high maternal mortality rates linked to postpartum haemorrhage and conditions like sickle cell disease, Kshs. 46 million has been allocated for completing and equipping a blood donor centre, alongside Kshs. 5 million for a dedicated blood bank vehicle. These resources will enhance the county’s ability to provide timely blood transfusions, reducing dependence on neighbouring counties.

Combating Teenage Pregnancies through Targeted Interventions and Effective Monitoring in Bungoma

Teenage pregnancies in Bungoma present significant barriers to educational and economic opportunities for young girls. The KDHS 2022 data reveals that 342 girls aged 10 to 14 and over 11,000 girls aged 15 to 19 became pregnant last year, highlighting an urgent need for targeted interventions. In response, Kshs. 525,000 has been allocated for family planning commodities, and Kshs. 300,000 will establish Youth-Friendly Centers (YFCs) to provide essential education and support services. These initiatives aim to empower young women with the knowledge and resources necessary to make informed reproductive choices.

To ensure the effectiveness of these health interventions, robust monitoring and evaluation systems are crucial.  RMNCAH Network was highly involved in pushing the agenda to have an allocation for several activities designed to enhance service delivery in Bungoma. This includes Kshs. 800,000 for quarterly updates of the Vital Signs Profile (VSP) tool, which will facilitate regular assessments of health services. Additionally, Kshs. 350,000 was dedicated to training healthcare workers on effective tool utilization, while Kshs. 1.14 million was allocated for quarterly reviews by Technical Working Groups (TWGs). Other funding includes Kshs. 200,000 earmarked for maternal and perinatal death surveillance to identify factors contributing to mortality rates and Kshs. 1 million invested in strengthening referral systems, all in draft.

While significant progress has been made, the journey towards optimal health for all residents of Bungoma County is ongoing. We urge the county government officials to ensure timely implementation of allocated funds with transparency, while healthcare providers are called to commit to delivering high-quality care. Community leaders are encouraged to engage actively in health promotion activities, and development partners are asked to provide sustained financial and technical support. Together, these collective efforts can transform Bungoma County’s health landscape, ensuring that every mother, child, and adolescent receives the care they deserve. The RMNCAH Network remains dedicated to advocating for solutions that will lead to healthier communities across the region.