Ruto responds to unfilled promise of giving free diapers

President William Ruto addressed the issue of unfilled promises to provide free diapers for mothers during his recent Presidential Town Hall at Kenya's KICC. In response to a question during the Kenya Health Summit, Ruto confirmed that his 2022 campaign pledge to ensure mothers receive diapers after giving birth remains a commitment his administration must honor.

He stated that the government has already put mechanisms in place to fulfill this promise, as every mother who gives birth will receive diapers upon leaving the hospital. Ruto emphasized that his administration has taken several steps to fulfill this commitment, including establishing the Social Health Authority (SHA) and training and deploying 107,800 community health promoters, with their stipends jointly funded by the national and county governments.

Additionally, the government is currently paying contributions for 560,000 indigent households and 2.2 million people, as well as health cover contributions for teenage mothers. Ruto highlighted reforms in primary healthcare, including strengthening dispensaries and health centers, creating management boards for facilities, and ensuring that Level Four, Five, and Six hospitals focus on specialized care.

The reforms also involve changes to the former Linda Mama program, now known as Linda Jamii, which prioritizes the mother, child, and household, and increasing reimbursement rates for maternity services. Normal deliveries now receive Ksh10,000 in reimbursement, while Caesarean sections receive Ksh30,000 across all facilities.