Kenya and Jhpiego expand partnership for maternal and newborn health

Kenya is expanding its partnership with the global health organization Jhpiego to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes. The collaboration aims to support the government’s Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere (EWENE) agenda as part of the nation’s broader push toward Universal Health Coverage.

Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale met with Jhpiego President and CEO Dr. Allyson Bear to discuss aligning external support with national priorities. Duale emphasized the ‘One Plan, One Budget and One Accountability’ principle to prevent duplication of efforts and ensure resources are directed toward critical needs, such as maternal hemorrhage, healthcare-worker skills, and access to medical technologies.

Under the agreement, Jhpiego will align its reproductive and maternal health programs with the EWENE agenda, initially focusing on 18 priority counties. Additionally, the organization will provide newborn care support in five counties. The partnership will also integrate maternal and newborn interventions with existing HIV and family-planning programs to ensure continuity of care. To strengthen the health workforce, the initiative will provide mentorship, virtual learning, and capacity-building for healthcare professionals.