Ruto Unveils KSh7.5 Billion Maternal Health Plan to Save Mothers and Newborns

Kenya has intensified efforts to curb preventable maternal and newborn deaths following the launch of the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan 2026–2028.

President William Ruto officially unveiled the national framework alongside First Lady Rachel Ruto during a high-level event attended by Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, Council of Governors Chairman Ahmed Abdullahi, Principal Secretary for Medical Services Dr. Ouma Oluga, Members of Parliament, development partners, community leaders, and senior Ministry of Health officials.

The ambitious plan targets a sharp reduction in maternal and newborn mortality through improved healthcare services, strengthened accountability systems, and targeted interventions in counties recording high numbers of maternal and infant deaths.

As part of the programme, the government has rolled out a six-month Maternal and Newborn Health Rapid Results Initiative that will run through November 2026 to fast-track implementation and improve healthcare outcomes across the country.

To support the initiative, the National Treasury will channel an additional KSh4 billion through the Social Health Authority (SHA) to expand maternal healthcare coverage for pregnant women.

The government has also committed KSh1 billion to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (KEMSA) to ensure adequate supply of essential maternal and newborn health commodities, while another KSh2.5 billion has been allocated for family planning supplies.

In a major boost to frontline healthcare services, the government announced plans to recruit and deploy 5,000 nurses and midwives nationwide to improve access to quality maternal and newborn care, especially in underserved areas.

Speaking during the launch, leaders said the investments are aimed at safeguarding the lives of mothers and newborns while strengthening Kenya’s long-term social and economic development.

Health officials noted that the EWENE Acceleration Plan aligns with the government’s broader Universal Health Coverage agenda and is expected to significantly improve maternal and child health indicators over the next three years.