Senator Omtatah Advocates for Dignified Maternal Health Care in Kenya

Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah has taken a bold stand against obstetric violence (OBV) in Kenya, drawing on deeply personal experiences to fuel his advocacy. The Senator’s commitment to improving maternal health care comes in the wake of shocking cases within his own family, which he says exemplify the broader, systemic issues in Kenya’s healthcare system.

Senator Omtatah has joined forces with the Nguvu Collective’s Change Leaders to champion the cause of dignified maternal health care. This collaboration is underscored by the recent release of a ground-breaking report by Nguvu Change Leaders, titled “Towards Ending OBV in Kenya: Unveiling the Invisible Wounds of Obstetric Violence Through the Voices of Kenyan Women.” This comprehensive document has significant implications for the ongoing debate in the Senate on the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill, 2023, which is set for a third reading.

The report, authored by Harriet Afandi, Deborah Monari, Josephine Mwende, and Ajra Mohamed, highlights the troubling realities faced by women in maternal health facilities. It aims to break the silence surrounding the abuse and mistreatment women often endure during obstetric care. These issues, collectively known as obstetric violence, include physical abuse, neglect, and psychological mistreatment, which can lead to severe long-term consequences for both mothers and their newborns.

Senator Omtatah’s involvement with this issue is deeply personal. He recalls the pain of losing a relative’s child due to negligence by nurses and another case where a cousin’s child suffered from cerebral palsy due to OBV. These experiences have reinforced his resolve to address these issues at a legislative level. “The report on Obstetric Violence by Nguvu Collective brings to light the deeply troubling realities faced by women in our maternal health facilities,” Senator Omtatah remarked. “Its recommendations could significantly strengthen the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill, 2023. It is imperative that the mistreatment and abuse women face when seeking maternal health care are addressed comprehensively.”

The Nguvu Change Leaders argue that the recommendations from their OBV report should be incorporated into the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill. They stress that achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and meeting Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 3.1—which aims to reduce global maternal mortality—requires not only ensuring access to care but also guaranteeing that this care is free from violence and discrimination. This aligns with the rights enshrined in Kenya’s Constitution and international treaties such as the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

The Nguvu Collective’s memorandum proposes several amendments to the Bill, emphasizing a holistic approach to maternal health care. Their vision includes not only addressing physical health needs but also considering emotional, mental, spiritual, social, and financial aspects of women’s well-being. By promoting a patient-centered approach, they advocate for a healthcare system where women are treated as active participants in their care journey, ensuring that all facets of their maternal health needs are comprehensively addressed.

As the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill moves towards its third reading, the integration of these recommendations could mark a significant step forward in transforming Kenya’s approach to maternal health. The collaboration between Senator Omtatah and the Nguvu Collective underscores a growing recognition of the urgent need for systemic change. This initiative not only seeks to address current injustices but also aims to set a new standard for maternal health care in Kenya—one that is grounded in dignity, respect, and comprehensive support for all women.

In conclusion, Senator Omtatah’s advocacy and the Nguvu Collective’s efforts represent a critical push towards ensuring that maternal health care in Kenya meets the highest standards of care and respect. The hope is that this concerted effort will lead to meaningful legislative changes, ultimately improving the lives of countless women and children across the country.