New partnership launched to tackle maternal and newborn deaths in Elgeyo Marakwet and Kericho

A new public-private partnership aimed at reducing maternal and newborn deaths in Elgeyo Marakwet and Kericho Counties has officially been launched.

The initiative brings together B. Braun, a global medical and pharmaceutical company with operations in Kenya; the County Governments of Elgeyo Marakwet and Kericho; and Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), implementing on behalf of the German Government through its develoPPP programme.

With a total investment of €1.26 million, co-financed by B. Braun and the German Government, the initiative seeks to bridge critical gaps in maternal and neonatal healthcare.

It will support 31 health facilities across the two counties through a comprehensive approach—training healthcare providers, supplying essential medical equipment, improving emergency referral systems, and increasing community awareness on maternal and newborn health.

During the launch, Alena Kern, Deputy Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy, emphasized the significance of the project, stating:

“This project is more than just a development initiative—it is a promise. A promise to mothers and newborns in Elgeyo Marakwet and Kericho that their health matters, and that they are not alone. Together, we are building a future where no woman dies while giving life, and no child is lost at birth due to preventable causes.”

The partnership will empower frontline healthcare workers with training in safe delivery practices and postnatal care, deliver modern medical equipment to local facilities, and strengthen referral and emergency response systems. Community outreach efforts will promote early antenatal care and the importance of skilled birth attendance.

An estimated 100,000 people—including pregnant women, newborns, and healthcare providers—are expected to benefit directly from the project.

Kerstin Heimel-Ventura, Director of International Development Cooperation at B. Braun, underlined the company’s commitment to sustainable healthcare:

“Data shows that investments in stronger health systems and quality care can cut maternal and newborn deaths—and stillbirths—by half. We are proud to support improved health outcomes for women and babies in Elgeyo Marakwet and Kericho, in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal 3.”

County leadership expressed strong support for the initiative, citing its alignment with local development priorities.

“Our maternal and newborn health statistics remain a concern. Through our Modern Health Facilities Strategy, we aim to establish centres of excellence in maternal and newborn care in every ward. This programme comes at a critical time to support and strengthen our systems. I am confident that by its conclusion, our counties will be national benchmarks for maternal and newborn care.”

Representing Governor Dr. Eric Kipkoech Mutai of Kericho County, County Director of Health Services Dr. Betty Langat affirmed the County’s dedication to the programme:

“To improve maternal and neonatal health in Kericho, we need access, quality, sustainability, and resources. This is a multifaceted journey—and we need everyone on board.”