MOMBASA, Kenya — Director-General for Health Patrick Amoth has called for urgent, data-driven interventions to accelerate progress in reducing child and maternal deaths as Kenya races toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking at the 25th Annual Scientific Conference of the Kenya Paediatric Association in Shanzu, Mombasa, Amoth said the country must move beyond policy formulation and focus on practical, field-tested solutions.
“Kenya has strong policies and guidelines, but we must now close the implementation gap by ensuring consistent application at facility level,” he said.
The conference, themed “Countdown to the SDGs – Fast Tracking Results for Every Newborn, Child and Adolescent in Africa,” brought together paediatricians, policymakers and development partners to assess progress and align strategies.
Amoth noted that while Kenya has made gains in health outcomes, key indicators remain off track. Newborn mortality stands at 21 per 1,000 live births, while under-five mortality is at 41 per 1,000—figures that continue to raise concern among health experts.
He highlighted persistent challenges including child stunting and adolescent pregnancies, warning that they pose long-term risks to the country’s human capital and economic development.
To address these gaps, the Ministry of Health is rolling out a Rapid Results Initiative targeting maternal and newborn mortality in high-burden counties, alongside implementation of the Every Woman Every Newborn Everywhere (EWENE) Acceleration Plan to standardise quality of care.
Amoth emphasised the role of frontline health workers and paediatric professionals in improving outcomes, urging them to lead clinical audits, mentor staff, and strengthen service delivery, particularly in underserved regions.
He also called on stakeholders to actively engage in ongoing policy reforms, including the Health Care Professionals Policy and the Patient Safety and Quality of Care Bill, aimed at strengthening governance and accountability in the sector.
On financing, Amoth noted that the Social Health Authority has enrolled more than 30 million Kenyans, expanding access to healthcare services. However, he stressed that access must be matched with quality care.
“Quality service delivery remains the responsibility of health professionals,” he said.
The Director-General further pointed to ongoing government investments in neonatal care equipment and essential medical supplies, urging proper utilisation to maximise impact.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the paediatric community and development partners to strengthen health systems and improve outcomes for mothers and children.
