On February 19, 2025 – Governor Julius Malombe inaugurated the Little Angels Newborn Unit and Maternity Facility at the Kitui County Referral Hospital, a major milestone in the county’s healthcare sector. The 70-bed facility, established in partnership with the Catholic Medical Mission Board (CMMB), is set to enhance maternal and newborn care services in the region.

Speaking at the launch, Governor Malombe emphasized the critical role of newborn health in building a thriving society, aligning the initiative with global efforts to reduce maternal and infant mortality. He cited former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon, who stated that no woman, child, or adolescent should suffer preventable death due to their location or status.

“Maternal and newborn health ensures the wellbeing of mothers and their infants while reducing deaths and disease,” said the Governor.

Expanding Maternal and Newborn Care in Kitui

The partnership between Kitui County and CMMB has significantly bolstered maternal and newborn services, with maternity units already constructed and equipped at Kisayani, Kalambani, Kamutei, and Kanziku Health Centres, along with a newborn unit at Ikanga Hospital.

Additionally, CMMB has played a key role in training healthcare workers in Early Essential Newborn Care (EENC), Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), and Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC). The organization has also provided bicycles to Community Health Promoters in Kitui South and Mwingi North, improving healthcare access in remote areas.

CMMB’s Commitment to Kitui’s Healthcare

CMMB President and CEO Mary Beth Powers, present at the event, reaffirmed the organization’s dedication to working with the county government to enhance healthcare services for Kitui residents.

The newly opened facility is expected to reduce infant mortality, improve maternal healthcare, and support safe deliveries, contributing to the overall wellbeing of families in Kitui County.

This investment in maternal and newborn health reflects the county government’s continued commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and services, ensuring better health outcomes for mothers and infants.