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Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, a cornerstone of healthcare in Nairobi’s Eastlands region, has taken a monumental step forward in safeguarding the lives of newborns. The hospital recently held a groundbreaking ceremony to officially launch the construction of a state-of-the-art, 53-bed Newborn Unit (NBU). This development is not just about adding beds; it represents a comprehensive commitment to overcoming persistent challenges in maternal and child health across the densely populated county.
The need for this expansion is urgent. The hospital’s existing neonatal services have long struggled with the sheer volume of patients, leading to congestion that compromises the quality of care and the dignity of the mothers and babies.
Addressing this critical issue, Mama Lucy CEO Dr. Fredrick Obwanda described the project as a “historic milestone.” He noted that the new facility will finally provide adequate space for mothers and significantly enhance neonatal care standards, especially by facilitating essential Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC)—the practice of skin-to-skin contact crucial for premature babies.
Zero Separation: Restoring Dignity and Health
The philosophy driving the new unit is centred on a “zero-separation” approach. Dr. Dorcus Kemunto, the hospital’s Board Chair, emphasized how the project will restore dignity to mothers and newborns by ensuring they are not separated, even during critical care periods. This is vital in addressing the gaps in maternal health access, particularly in low-income areas where healthcare infrastructure often lags.
The new NBU is set to feature advanced facilities designed to minimize the risk of infection and maximize recovery rates. By focusing on maternal and child health, Mama Lucy Hospital is directly impacting the welfare of thousands of families who depend on it for lifeline medical services.
A Crucial Partnership and Investment
This ambitious project is being realized through a powerful partnership with the Newborn Essential Solutions and Technologies (NEST360) initiative, which is dedicated to improving newborn survival across Africa.
Professor William Macharia, NEST360’s Chairperson, confirmed the significance of Mama Lucy Hospital’s role, noting that the facility received the largest allocation of KSh 24 million from the KSh 190 million fund set aside by NEST360 for expanding and equipping newborn units in Kenya. This substantial investment was directly driven by the hospital’s high patient volumes and its strategic importance as a Level 5 facility in Nairobi.
Aligning with Nairobi’s Health Vision
The construction of the 53-bed NBU perfectly aligns with Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson’s health sector transformation agenda, which identifies maternal and child health as a core priority. This commitment to efficiency and specialized care is a win for every new parent in Nairobi.
This new unit promises to transform the start of life for thousands of infants, turning a challenging journey into one of hope, dignity, and survival. The groundbreaking marks a true turning point for healthcare delivery in the capital.