ADVERT 
By Sharon Onyango
Siaya County Referral Hospital has received a major boost in its maternal and newborn healthcare capacity following the donation of essential medical equipment through a renewed partnership with global health research initiatives.
The support, facilitated by the Child Health and Mortality Prevention Surveillance (CHAMPS) and the Pregnancy Risk Infant Surveillance and Maternal Alliance (PRISMA) Maternal and Newborn Health studies, marks a significant step toward strengthening life-saving services for mothers and infants in the region.
Implemented in collaboration with the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), the initiative underscores a long-standing partnership dedicated to improving healthcare outcomes in Siaya County.
The newly delivered equipment includes a baby resuscitaire and warmer, blood pressure machines, adult and pediatric pulse oximeters, a glucometer, wall and digital thermometers, thermo guns, and space heaters — all aimed at enhancing clinical care and emergency response for vulnerable patients.
Speaking during the handover, County Health Executive Committee Member Dr. Omondi Owino reaffirmed the county government’s commitment to reducing maternal and newborn mortality through strategic collaborations. He lauded the continued support from CHAMPS and PRISMA, noting that the equipment will significantly improve service delivery at the referral facility.
“This partnership is critical in equipping our frontline health workers with the tools they need to provide timely, quality, and life-saving care,” said Dr. Owino.
The intervention aligns with Siaya County’s broader health agenda to strengthen healthcare systems, reduce preventable deaths, and ensure safer pregnancies and childbirth experiences.
Health experts say such targeted investments are key to addressing persistent maternal and neonatal health challenges, particularly in underserved regions.
The collaboration between Siaya County Referral Hospital, CHAMPS, PRISMA, LSTM, and KEMRI continues to demonstrate the impact of research-driven partnerships in transforming healthcare delivery and improving outcomes for communities.
