Deborah Monari; Nguvu Change Leader: PHOTO[COURTESY]
The first-ever report on Obstetric Violence in Kenya reveals widespread abuse and mistreatment of women during childbirth in healthcare facilities, hence discouraging many from seeking skilled care and risking maternal and infant mortality.
This makes it urgent for the ongoing Maternal Health Bill debate to focus on ensuring dignified, respectful maternal care to improve health outcomes and uphold human rights.
Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah, along with Nguvu Collective’s Change Leaders, is championing the fight against obstetric violence in Kenya, pushing for urgent reforms in maternal health care.
Senator Omtatah received the groundbreaking report on Obstetric Violence created by Nguvu Change Leaders, which holds significant relevance to the ongoing debate in the Senate on the Maternal, Child Health Bill, and Newborn 2023. The Bill is at a critical stage in the legislative process where further amendments can be proposed, debated, and final decisions made before it is either passed or rejected. The report’s findings could influence these deliberations, particularly in shaping policies aimed at improving maternal healthcare and addressing systemic issues such as obstetric violence.
“The report by Nguvu Collective reveals serious issues in our mental health facilities that must be addressed in the Maternal and Child Health Bill, 2023”, Senator Omtatah stated. “Its recommendation provides a strong foundation for amending the bill to ensure women receive a high standard of care, this is the legislative change we need”
Senator Omtatah’s encounters with the tragic consequences of obstetric violence further highlight the urgency of addressing this issue nationwide.
The report, “Towards Ending OBV in Kenya: Unveiling the Invisible Wounds of Obstetric Violence Through the Voices of Kenyan Women,” by Harriet Afandi, Deborah Monari, Josephine Mwende, and Ajra Mohamed, exposes the widespread abuse women face during obstetric care, including verbal abuse, neglect, forced procedures, and lack of consent. With 1 in 3 women affected, it calls for mandatory training, stricter patient rights enforcement, and the inclusion of respectful care in national policies.
“To achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and meet SDG Target 3.1’s goal of reducing maternal mortality, we must address obstetric violence (OBV). Dignified, respectful care is essential to realizing the right to health, as upheld by our Constitution and international treaties like CEDAW. Incorporating the OBV Report’s recommendations into the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill is key to fulfilling these commitments.” – said Nguvu Change Leaders.
With the Bill scheduled for a third reading, the Nguvu Change Leaders have submitted a memorandum proposing amendments to improve maternal health care. These include increased funding, mandatory skilled birth attendants, comprehensive training on respectful care, and integrating mental health and financial support for low-income mothers. The group emphasizes reforms that ensure holistic, patient-centered care, addressing women’s physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and economic needs.
Nguvu Collective believes this strategy will ensure all aspects of a woman’s maternal health needs are addressed. As the Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Bill, of 2023, progresses, public hearings and engagement with lawmakers are essential. Citizens are urged to participate and advocate for dignified care for all women.
