Pumwani Maternity Hospital Marks Historic Year with Zero Maternal Deaths and Over 11,000 Safe Deliveries

Pumwani Maternity Hospital has achieved a significant milestone by recording zero maternal deaths while safely delivering over 11,000 mothers in the past year. This accomplishment highlights notable improvements in maternal healthcare services at the Nairobi facility.

Dr. Catherine Ngugi, the hospital's Chief Executive Officer, confirmed the zero maternal death rate among women who gave birth at the hospital during this period. Additionally, the hospital processed 21,456 claims through the Social Health Authority (SHA) valued at approximately Sh411 million, supporting the provision of maternity and other essential health services.

County Investments Boost Healthcare Capacity

Nairobi County Governor Johnson Sakaja attributed this success to increased county funding for health services, which has risen from about Sh700 million to Sh2.6 billion. This funding surge has enabled expansion of critical care services, including establishing Nairobi's first public Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a paediatric ICU at Pumwani Hospital.

The county’s critical care capacity has grown from zero ICU beds in 2022 to 43 beds, significantly enhancing the ability to provide specialised treatment locally. Investments have also focused on increasing hospital bed capacity, upgrading facilities, and expanding surgical theatres to reduce patient waiting times.

Strengthening Healthcare Across Nairobi

• Smaller health facilities now receive between Sh1 million and Sh2 million to address operational needs promptly.
• Infrastructure and services at other hospitals, such as Mama Margaret Uhuru Hospital, have been expanded to decentralise healthcare delivery.
• Approximately 7,820 Community Health Promoters support healthcare at the household and community levels by identifying illnesses early, providing education, and facilitating referrals.

This progress aligns with ongoing government efforts to enhance maternal and primary healthcare through improved financing mechanisms like the SHA, which aims to reduce financial barriers for patients.

The county government emphasizes that sustained investment in health infrastructure, staffing, equipment, and financing is essential to maintain these gains and ensure timely, quality care for women and children across Nairobi.