Debate maternal health Bill
The new newborn and maternal high dependency unit at the Kenyatta National Hospital in Othaya.
The National Assembly reconvened in Parliament in overwhelming numbers to debate and vote on the contentious Coalition Bill, which touches on them directly as politicians.
The special sessions, which have presented a supremacy battle between rival sides, affirm the unfortunate tendency of MPs to prioritise Bills and debates that touch on their interests, absconding important ones that concern citizens’ issues. Among those that face a tragic fate is the Maternal, Newborn and Child Healthcare (MNCH) Bill in the Senate.
This is an important Bill that requires to be hastened but could end up being shelved as we enter the electioneering season, often characterised by countrywide vote-hunting rallies by MPs and senators. We see a full house for seatings for a debate like the coalitions one but not to discuss the MNCH Bill.
The proposal appears progressive and provides several legal mechanisms for reducing the maternal mortality ratio (MMR), currently at 362 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, according to Kenya Demographic Health Survey (KDHS), and advance the quality and accessibility of MNCH.
The outstanding sections entitle every pregnant or woman of reproductive age to maternal health services, including family planning, that are responsive to their needs. It recognises adolescent girls as a special demographic, providing for adolescent-friendly, dignified, respectful and non-judgmental health services.
Studies show that voter knowledge in the country is increasing and becoming central to their decision at the ballot box as a result of better and easier access to political and governance information through media platforms. Kenyans are recording improved awareness of specific candidates, their policies and general political knowledge.
The importance and urgency of the MNCH Bill deserves prioritisation despite political polarisation. Kenyans should also use the opportunity to observe and determine their preferred candidate for MP.
Mr Fatinato is the Adolescent and Youth Coordinator at Centre for the Study of Adolescence. [email protected].
