The NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat has kicked off a capacity-building workshop on clinical facilitation and learners support module aimed at enhancing the competencies of midwives and nurses in providing safe delivery services. The workshop, held at Kenya Highlands University in Kericho County, marks a significant step in Kenya’s ongoing commitment to improving maternal healthcare across the country.

Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya, the CEO, NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, giving his opening remarks at the Kenya Highlands University 

In attendance were: Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya, the CEO, NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, Dr. Rose Kitur, Director NEPAD Programmes, Prof. Joseph Kiplangat the VC Kenya Highlands University, Dr. Richard Sang, Dean, FHS, Kenya Highlands University, Prof. Dinah Chelagat, Dean SONM, Moi University, Prof. Tenge Kuremu, Principal-CHS, Moi University among others.

The midwifery training program, started in 2006 in partnership with the Moi University’s School of Nursing and Midwifery and is part of a broader effort to address maternal health challenges in Kenya. As one of the pilot countries an initiative by AUDA-NEPAD, Kenya’s program began with a cohort of six nursing students at Moi University. These students received training on safe delivery practices and later trained their peers, thereby multiplying the impact of the program across the nation.

In his address the Chief Executive Officer, NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat, Amb. Dr. Samori Okwiya, emphasized the critical importance of maternal healthcare in Kenya’s health policy. He underscored the role of training midwives in ensuring safe delivery practices, describing it as a fundamental human right that must be safeguarded. Aditionally, Amb. Samori noted that the training is part of the Secretariat’s thematic area on human capital development which focuses on promoting skills in people to enhance their knowledge, capabilities, and competencies for personal and professional growth. Moreover, the training is designed to foster innovation, social inclusion, and lifelong learning, ensuring that individuals are empowered to contribute meaningfully to their communities and economies.

“Maternal care is central to the well-being of our nation. The ability to provide safe, quality care during childbirth is not just a health issue; it is a human rights issue. By equipping our midwives with the knowledge and skills they need, we are ensuring that more women and children survive and thrive.”

He also highlighted the alignment of the training with Kenya’s broader national objectives for improving maternal health, noting that the program’s emphasis on sharing best practices and continuous learning fits into the country’s commitments under the Continental Policy on Maternal Health.

The Vice Chancellor of Kenya Highlands University, Prof. Joseph Kiplangat reiterated the importance of well-trained nurses and midwives for both home and clinic-based healthcare delivery. He emphasized that students who undergo this training will be able to provide the quality care necessary for improving maternal health outcomes.

“This workshop is an investment in the next generation of nurses and midwives who will go on to serve communities across the country, when nurses are properly trained, they can offer the critical thinking and clinical expertise required to handle maternal care challenges effectively. By equipping them with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, we ensure that they are prepared to meet the demands of the field.”

In his address Prof. Tenge Kuremu, Principal at the Moi University, stated the pivotal role of midwifery training in improving maternal health outcomes across Kenya. He applauded the efforts of the NEPAD/APRM Kenya Secretariat for spearheading initiatives that train and equip midwives and nurses, highlighting that well-trained midwives and nurses are essential in ensuring safe and effective deliveries, particularly in rural areas.

The participants were asked to take the knowledge and skills gained from the workshop and use them to improve maternal healthcare in their respective communities.

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