Kenya's progress in maternal health receives award at World Health Assembly

Kenya has been recognised at the ongoing 76th World Health Assembly in Geneva for her exceptional performance in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH).

Kenya received the esteemed Joyce Kafanabo Award was received by Director Preventive and Promotive Health Joseph Lenai and Health CS advisor Justus Bundi on behalf of Susan Wafula.

The Joyce Kafanabo Awards are awarded for excellence and innovation named in honour of the late Joyce Kafanabo, senior director at the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, who passed away in January 2021 in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania.

The awards celebrate countries that have made the most progress on digitalisation, institutionalising their scorecard tools to enhance data-driven decision-making, and empowering citizens to improve health services and outcomes.

The side event, organized by the Africa Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA), focused on eliminating malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) by 2023.

The African Union (AU) Commissioner for Health and Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development Minata Samaté Cessouma presented the prestigious awards, acknowledging Kenya's remarkable progress in RMNCAH indicators.

Kenya's recognition stems from its exceptional performance on the African Leaders Malaria Alliance (ALMA) Scorecard for Accountability and Action.

This vital tool tracks priority malaria, RMNCAH, and NTD indicators, promoting enhanced accountability, monitoring, and response to healthcare system gaps, primarily among senior leaders.

Receiving the award at the WHA76 side event signifies the global significance of Kenya's achievements.

The country's unwavering commitment to addressing health challenges and implementing recommended actions, as demonstrated through the ALMA Scorecard, serves as a shining example for others to follow.

Kenya's notable accomplishments not only reflect its dedication to improving RMNCAH indicators but also underscore its progress towards attaining the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Universal Health Coverage.

By excelling in comprehensive healthcare services, Kenya demonstrates the crucial importance of prioritizing the well-being of its population.

As Kenya continues to prioritize the health and well-being of its citizens, this recognition at the WHA76 side event reinforces the nation's commitment to global health advancement.

Kenya's achievements in RMNCAH indicators set a high standard, inspiring other countries to strive for excellence and work collectively towards a healthier future.