Kenya Moves Closer to Global Family Planning Commitments

As part of its strategy to reduce maternal mortality, Kenya has selected four counties—Isiolo, Makueni, Kwale, and Kakamega—to intensify family planning efforts among women. Data from these counties indicate early successes, with significant increases in the uptake of immediate postpartum family planning. The Kenya Health Information System reported that the uptake of contraceptives offered within 48 hours after delivery increased fourfold on average, from 3.8% in January 2023 to 13.9% by the end of the year. Kakamega and Makueni Counties recorded the highest uptake at 19% and 17%, respectively.

These advancements are crucial as these counties, along with nine others, have historically accounted for 98.7% of maternal deaths in Kenya. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the counties have maintained their overall modern contraceptive uptake. For instance, Isiolo’s modern contraceptive rate increased from 26% in 2014 to 29% in 2022, and Kakamega’s from 60% to 63%. These positive trends indicate that Kenya is on track to meet one of its global commitments: increasing the modern contraceptive rate for married women from 58% to 64% by 2030. Dr. Mohamed Sheikh, Director General for the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD), emphasized that family planning is critical for improving maternal and child survival, highlighting the importance of spacing pregnancies to prevent complications.

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Yet, challenges remain, such as inadequate expertise and financial resources. Counties like Isiolo have adopted innovative approaches, such as involving men in family planning discussions, but the need for more robust support persists. The Council of Governors has encouraged counties to establish offices to seek and collaborate with partners to enhance their family planning initiatives.