The Department of Health and Sanitation in Trans Nzoia County convened a planning meeting to prepare for the upcoming Malezi Bora initiative. This two-week program, set to begin in the coming weeks, is aimed at improving maternal and child health services across the county. The initiative marks the second phase of Malezi Bora this year and is designed to increase the use of vital health services for mothers and children.

During a stakeholder meeting, which included representatives from the health and education sectors, Trans Nzoia County Health Nutritionist Coordinator Lydia Kimani stressed the significance of the initiative. “Malezi Bora is an initiative that was started by the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders to improve health services for mothers and children. It aims to ensure that pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children under five years old receive the care they need,” said Kimani.

Key Services for Maternal and Child Health:  

The Malezi Bora initiative offers a variety of health services for mothers and young children. For pregnant and lactating women, these include weight monitoring, tetanus vaccinations, prevention of mother-to-child transmission of infections, postpartum care, and family planning services. Kimani emphasized the importance of weight monitoring, noting, “Weight monitoring is crucial to ensure mothers gain weight accordingly, allowing them to deliver healthy, full-term babies. We also focus on preventing maternal mortality and promoting overall health during pregnancy.”

For children under the age of five, the initiative provides growth monitoring, immunization, Vitamin A supplementation, and deworming services. Kimani highlighted the critical role of these interventions in promoting children’s health. “During Malezi Bora week, we urge mothers and children to visit our health facilities. The services we offer are critical in reducing mortality rates among women and children. Our goal is to ensure every child celebrates their fifth birthday and grows up healthy and strong,” she said.

Outreach to Hard-to-Reach Areas:  

In addition to facility-based services, Malezi Bora includes outreach programs for hard-to-reach areas. Health workers will visit Early Childhood Development and Education (ECDE) centers, primary schools, and homes to provide Vitamin A supplements, deworming treatments, and nutritional guidance. “Vitamin A supplementation is especially important because it boosts a child’s immunity, supports physical growth, and prevents severe diseases like anemia and blindness,” Kimani explained. “Some children go blind due to Vitamin A deficiency, which is why we emphasize the need for this capsule.”

Support from Partners:  

The Malezi Bora initiative is being backed by key partners, including the Hellen Keller Foundation and USAID AMPATH Uzima. These organizations are collaborating closely with the county health department to ensure the program’s success.

Kimani also encouraged parents and expectant mothers to utilize the available health services throughout the county. “It’s crucial for expectant mothers to attend clinics and for children to receive Vitamin A supplements to boost their immunity. We are committed to reaching every child and ensuring they get the care they deserve,” she stated. 

With preparations underway, Trans Nzoia County is poised to make a significant impact on maternal and child health through the Malezi Bora initiative, ensuring healthier futures for its youngest residents.