Metkei Community Maternity Ward Receives Equipment
The County Government of Elgeyo Marakwet, Metkei Ward, in collaboration with AMPATH and Moi University, has received a generous equipment donation from the German Doctors Agency to equip the new Metkei Community Maternity Ward.
This new maternity unit is set to open and will play a critical role in supporting mothers and newborn babies in the Metkei community by addressing the high rates of infant mortality and ensuring safer deliveries. The facility received equipment including delivery beds, neonatal care units and essential monitoring devices to ensure the ward is equipped to meet a variety of maternity needs. This initiative marks a significant milestone in improving maternal and child health in the region.
During the event, Michael Kibiwott, County Executive Committee Member for Health Services, highlighted the transformative impact of the new maternity ward, stating, “The maternity ward will improve maternity services in the area and significantly reduce infant deaths. Elgeyo Marakwet County faces a high burden of infant and maternal mortality due to home deliveries and the long distances mothers have to travel for care. The new facility brings vital healthcare closer to the community and sets a strong foundation for future care.”
Community members expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the new facility and the donated equipment. One resident, Mary, shared, “This dispensary has already helped us so much. Before, we had to travel 20 to 30 kilometers to access healthcare, and some women even gave birth on the way. The new maternity ward will make a huge difference. I thank God and AMPATH for this blessing.”
In addition to Mr. Kibiwott, the equipment handover ceremony was also attended by key stakeholders including: Deputy County Commissioner Ms. Diana Wekesa; Principal of the College of Health Sciences at Moi University Prof. Tenge Kuremu; Kaja Momanyi, representing German Doctors (third party funding officer BMZ); Dr. Jeremiah Laktabai, leader of AMPATH Population Health; and Metkei Ward Member of the County Assembly Mr. Lawi Kibire.
Ms. Wekesa spoke passionately about the facility’s potential, noting, “This facility is a lifeline for mothers and their children. With access to professional healthcare, we expect to see a substantial decrease in maternal and child mortality rates. We are deeply grateful to our partners and look forward to witnessing the positive changes this facility will bring.”
The Metkei Maternity Ward builds on the existing Metkei Community Dispensary, established in 2021 through a partnership between AMPATH, the Oak Foundation and the County Health Department. The dispensary has been pivotal in managing common ailments and facilitating community health referrals.
Prof. Tenge reaffirmed AMPATH’s dedication to enhancing access to care: “AMPATH remains committed to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare. The success of our community health initiatives stems from empowering local healthcare providers through education and training. These investments create sustainable change that uplifts the entire region.”
Ms. Momanyi expressed her gratitude for contributing to this impactful project. “We are committed to ensuring that the necessary equipment and staff are in place. Our goal is to support this facility until it is self-sustaining, enabling the community and county to manage it independently,” she said.
This event represents more than just an equipment donation—it symbolizes a shared commitment to improving lives and fostering a healthier future for the Metkei community.