Kilifi's Grassroots Champions Transform Maternal and Child Health

A new initiative in Kilifi County is working to improve maternal and child health. The Okoa Mama na Mtoto programme, led by Shina Foundation, trains local influencers to educate families on critical health practices. These community champions help tackle long-standing challenges in the region. Kilifi faces persistent issues affecting maternal health. Long distances to clinics, poor nutrition awareness, and delayed medical visits contribute to poor outcomes. The Shina Foundation, under Nazi Kivutha, addresses these problems through grassroots advocacy training.

The initiative selects trusted community members to become champions. These include boda boda and tuk-tuk riders, women leaders, and organised groups. Their role involves teaching families about pregnancy danger signs, proper nutrition, and the importance of timely healthcare.

Norah Mulatya, a boda boda rider in Malindi, is one such champion. She uses local songs and casual conversations to spread knowledge. Her work helps mothers understand nutrition and safe pregnancy practices. The programme equips ordinary residents with the skills to drive change. By focusing on trusted voices, it aims to transform health behaviours across Kilifi. Early results show growing awareness and improved access to care among local families.