By Joseph Abuje
Expectant mothers in Busia County have received a significant boost in maternal healthcare following the donation of five ultrasound machines by Rainbow 4 Africa UK. The machines, valued at over Ksh 5 million, were distributed to Angurai, Port Victoria, Nangina, Matayos, and Sio-Port Sub-County Hospitals.
The donation aims to enhance early screening and detection of pregnancy complications, improving maternal and neonatal health outcomes. The machines will help monitor fetal development and enable expectant mothers to access essential services closer to home.
Speaking during the handover ceremony at Matayos Sub-County Hospital, Busia Deputy Governor and County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Health, H.E. Arthur Odera, expressed gratitude for the support. He emphasized that the equipment would help reduce maternal and neonatal deaths caused by undetected pregnancy complications.
Dr. Frank Wanyama, leading the Rainbow 4 Africa UK Kenya delegation, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to strengthening healthcare in underserved areas. He highlighted the alarming rates of maternal and neonatal deaths in Busia and noted that this intervention aims to curb the crisis.
“The statistics of maternal and neonatal deaths due to undetected pregnancy complications are concerning. Rainbow 4 Africa UK is stepping in to help address this issue,” said Dr. Wanyama.
With this latest donation, Rainbow 4 Africa UK has now supplied a total of five ultrasound machines to hospitals in Busia County. Local healthcare workers welcomed the initiative, noting that expectant mothers previously had to travel long distances for ultrasound services.
To ensure the sustainability of the initiative, the County Health Department has committed to training healthcare personnel on the proper use and maintenance of the machines. This effort will enhance service delivery and contribute to improved maternal healthcare in the region.