Women and children from Mombasa County are set to benefit from a health care campaign launched by the European Union.
The Sh335 million project will seek to improve the health of mothers and children in Mombasa slums.
EU head of the Social and Environment section, Dr Hjoris D’Agostino Ogendo said the project will target more than 47,000 women and children in Mombasa.
“People living in informal settlements are faced with big problems when it comes to immunization of children and seeking medical attention,” said Dr Ogendo.
While speaking during the launch of the programme on Friday at Treasury Square in Mombasa, she said the campaign will assist those living in slums access to health facilities easily.
Dr Ogendo further said the campaign will also ensure that more children are vaccinated, better nutrition and there will be increased safe deliveries for women.
“We believe moving into slums is crucial if we want the health situation to improve across Kenya. Am also urging stakeholders to help boost training of health workers.”
“Between 18 and 20 mothers die every day due to complications during childbirth. That is why the EU is partnering with Mombasa County and other key organizations to ensure that these deaths are avoided,” she added.
The three year health care programme is dubbed “Together for mothers and Chidren.”
The campaign will target women and children in informal settlements of Bangladesh, Maweni, Moroto, Machafukoni, Mburukenge and Kaa Chonjo.
Also in attendance was Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho who welcomed the initiative saying it will benefit many women and children who can’t access health facilities.
Governor Joho said, “The programme will help many women and children access to affordable health care and increase chances of survival for mothers and children.”