By Shadrack Babu, Research Associate

On 11 May 2026, Global Health Innovations (GHI) participated in a sensitization meeting with the Kilifi County Health Management Team (CHMT) to discuss the rollout of a community-based Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) pilot program.

The initiative seeks to strengthen support for mothers and low birthweight infants by adopting a community follow-up model led by Community Health Promoters (CHPs). Through this approach, CHPs will provide ongoing follow-up, counseling, and support to mothers after discharge, helping to improve newborn survival and health outcomes.

The pilot program will be implemented in three health facilities across Kilifi County: Kilifi County Referral Hospital, Mariakani Sub-County Hospital, and Mtwapa Sub-County Hospital. The sensitization meeting provided an opportunity for county health leaders and stakeholders to align on implementation strategies, roles, and expected outcomes of the pilot.

The community-based model is expected to enhance continuity of care between health facilities and households, ensuring that vulnerable newborns and their caregivers receive the support they need during the critical early stages of life.