A newborn unit (NBU) equipped with modern technology and upgraded infrastructure has been launched at Pumwani Maternity Hospital in a major step aimed at reducing newborn mortality rates.
The facility, which is marking its 100th anniversary this year, handles an estimated 80 to 90 deliveries daily, making it one of the busiest maternity hospitals in the country. The upgraded newborn unit is expected to curb preventable deaths, particularly those linked to hypothermia, while strengthening maternal and neonatal care services.
For years, newborns at the hospital have struggled with hypothermia — a condition Dr. Chris Mugambi, the Medical Superintendent, described as “an invisible enemy,” which occurs when babies are unable to regulate their body temperature.
Dr. Mugambi, who is also a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, said the new interventions are already making a difference.
“The central heating component has enabled us to achieve above 75 per cent improvement in thermal regulation outcomes, saving infant lives on the backdrop of stretched demand,” he said.
The project was supported through the Safaricom Foundation under its Uzazi Salama programme, which focuses on reducing maternal and infant mortality in line with the World Health Organization’s Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere (EWENE) action plan.
Safaricom Foundation Chairman Joseph Ogutu said the initiative reflects the impact of partnerships in strengthening healthcare delivery.
“We are absolutely delighted at the impact of this partnership with the Nairobi County Government and Pumwani Maternity Hospital, enabling us to improve the health and well-being of women and children in our country by ending preventable deaths as we journey towards the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals”
The M-PESA Foundation contributed Sh13 million towards the installation of the central heating system in the newborn unit.
Nairobi County Chief Officer for Medical Services Mariam Dahir said the project will significantly improve maternal and newborn outcomes, noting the hospital’s major national role.
“This means we are responsible for approximately one in every ten maternal cases in Kenya,” she said.
She added that the county welcomes continued collaboration to strengthen healthcare systems.
“As a county, we receive this with great gratitude and we look forward to continued partnership, and where possible, cascading similar support to other facilities within the city,” she added.
The upgrade aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 3 on Good Health and Well-being, with partners emphasizing its importance in reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths across Kenya.