On March 2026, Kenya hosted IMNCH 2026, bringing together policymakers, health experts, NGOs, researchers, and global innovators to advance maternal, newborn, and child health (MNCH). The conference opened at the EDGE Convention Centre, where HENNET Kenya joined the Ministry of Health in a side session focused on accountability and results. The session was organized by SASA Alliance with partners including SAMASHA Medical Foundation, RHNK, ICRH, NCPD, JHPIEGO Kenya, Pathfinder International Nigeria, and PPD ARO. The dialogue brought together legislators, donors, researchers, and media representatives to examine policy and financing priorities for MNCH, focusing on practical pathways to accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Opening remarks by Dr. Edward Serem, Head of division of RMNCAH and Mary Mwiti, CEO of the Council of Governors, highlighted notable county-level progress, particularly the expansion of Maternal and Perinatal Death Surveillance and Response (MPDSR) to review and prevent every maternal and newborn death. H.E. Dr. Mutula Kilonzo Jr., Governor of Makueni County, shared key achievements, including zero maternal deaths at Level 5 facilities, strengthened supply systems, and innovations such as calibrated drapes for accurate blood-loss measurement. He emphasized that such progress relies on coordinated action among health and budget committees, policymakers, and implementers.
The Country Showcase brought together 40 delegations to share progress, challenges, and solutions from their unique contexts. The session was a dynamic forum for exchanging strategies on improving antenatal care, strengthening data systems, and reducing maternal and neonatal mortality. Delegates embraced the opportunity not only to present but to learn from one another, illustrating the power of cross-country collaboration.
Innovations and achievements showcased included:
Malawi: High-level government commitment to newborn health, including presentations at the State House
Pakistan: 97% reduction in severe postpartum hemorrhage in areas using calibrated drapes
Somalia: Leadership in midwifery development
Zimbabwe: Use of data to inform programming
Uganda: Nationwide maternal and newborn death audits
The session’s success was evident in the spontaneous exchange of contacts among delegates, reinforcing the value of peer learning and collective momentum. Day Three underscored that sustainable progress relies not only on interventions but on the connections and shared knowledge driving change across countries.
IMNCH 2026 concluded not with a sense of ending, but with a palpable momentum for action. Hallways buzzed with conversations, contacts were exchanged, and participants left with a renewed determination to turn lessons into real-world impact.
A major highlight was the Innovation Marketplace, featuring 47 innovators showcasing solutions from clinical tools to AI-powered digital health platforms. Developed with Busara and Grand Challenges Canada, the marketplace invited participants to reflect on evidence, scalability, and sustainability—challenging delegates to consider how innovation can move from concept to measurable change.
Finally, Dr. Ouma Oluga, Principal Secretary, Kenya Ministry of Health, closed the conference with a heartfelt charge:
“The best gift we can do for the mothers we lost is to ensure no one else loses their life unnecessarily. So, let’s go and do the work.”
IMNCH 2026 ended with a shared sense of responsibility, highlighting that global dialogue is only the first step—real change happens when ideas, partnerships, and innovations are implemented at national and local levels.
Looking Ahead: From Commitment to Impact
IMNCH 2026 reaffirmed Kenya’s—and the world’s—commitment to ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths. Across counties, countries, and continents, the conference showcased innovation, evidence, and collaboration, reminding us that progress is possible when diverse stakeholders unite behind a common goal.
The challenge now is clear: turn momentum into measurable impact and ensure that every mother and every child not only survive but thrives.
For HENNET Kenya, the day reinforced that commitment must translate into impact—and that ending preventable maternal and newborn deaths depends on sustained investment and strong partnerships at every level.
By: Joy Gacheri (Communication and Media Ass.)