By Alloys Musyoka
In a major boost to maternal and neonatal healthcare, the Kwale County Government has officially received a consignment of medical equipment worth Sh25 million.
The donation, partnered by LVCT Health under the USAID Stawisha Pwani initiative, aims to eliminate preventable maternal and infant deaths across the region.
The equipment was officially handed over to Kwale Governor Fatuma Achani at the county headquarters. She was accompanied by Christine Mvurya, the founder and director of the Fanikisha Foundation.
What the Donation Includes
The multi-million-shilling consignment targets critical gaps in rural healthcare delivery and includes:
Ultrasound machines to enhance prenatal screenings.
Specialized devices for the care and survival of premature infants.
Two motorcycles to help healthcare workers navigate rural areas and provide mobile health services.
Driving the “EWENE” Campaign
Speaking during the handover, USAID Stawisha Pwani Program Director Dr. Patrick Oyaro emphasized that the equipment is meant to ensure that “no pregnant mother should die while giving birth.”
He highlighted the EWENE Campaign (Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere), stating that Kwale has the potential to lead the nation in safe deliveries through these structured partnerships.
🤝 Transitioning to County-Led Healthcare
LVCT Health Kenya Executive Director Dr. Lilian Otiso reaffirmed her organization’s commitment to supporting the region’s medical infrastructure. She noted that the donation marks an important structural shift.
“As we transit from projects being supported mainly by NGO partners to now being led by the county, this is the first step towards that process. We believe in this mutual partnership.”
— Dr. Lilian Otiso, Executive Director, LVCT Health
Delivery Across 18 Local Facilities
While receiving the items, Governor Fatuma Achani confirmed that the equipment will be distributed strategically to 18 frontline health facilities across Kwale.
“The equipment will be critical in fighting issues that may cause the death of women giving birth and children in hospitals,” Governor Achani stated.
She further praised Stawisha Pwani for its holistic approach, noting that the program has previously provided extensive medical supplies and rigorously trained Ministry of Health workers to ensure high standards of care across the county.
