UNICEF: Waiving maternity fees for Kenyan mothers

KWALE, Kenya, 8 January 2007 -- New mother Rehema Juma sits impatiently on a small bed in the Maternity Ward at Mswambweni Hospital. Her newborn baby rests on her lap, wrapped in brightly coloured traditional 'kikoi' cloth. For days now, she has been waiting to go home.

"I delivered three days ago, but because I have no money, I have to wait for my mother to come and get me," said Ms. Juma.

In response to problems such as this, the Kenyan Ministry of Health waived maternity fees in the country's health centres in July of last year. Professional health services are now accessible to those who cannot afford to pay.

To read the full story, visit: http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/kenya_42384.html

Category:

Nonprofits & Activism

Tags:

• UNICEF
• Kenya
• maternity
• maternal
• health
• Kwale
• children