Kenya has intensified efforts to tackle preventable maternal and newborn deaths with the launch of the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan 2026–2028.
President Dr. William Ruto officially unveiled the national framework alongside First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto during a high-level event attended by Cabinet Secretary for Health Aden Duale, Council of Governors Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Members of Parliament, Partners, community leaders, and senior Ministry of Health officials.
The plan seeks to reduce maternal and newborn mortality through targeted interventions, improved healthcare services, and stronger accountability mechanisms, particularly in high-burden counties.
As part of the initiative, the government has rolled out a six-month Maternal and Newborn Health Rapid Results Initiative running through November 2026 to accelerate implementation and improve outcomes.
To support the programme, the National Treasury will allocate an additional KSh4 billion through the Social Health Authority (SHA) to expand maternal healthcare coverage for pregnant women.
The government has also committed KSh 1 billion to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) for essential maternal and newborn health commodities, alongside KSh 2.5 billion for family planning supplies.
In addition, 5,000 nurses and midwives will be recruited and deployed nationwide to strengthen frontline healthcare services and improve access to quality maternal and newborn care.
Officials say the investments are aimed at protecting mothers and newborns while strengthening Kenya’s long-term social and economic well-being.
