Safaricom Foundation, in partnership with AMREF has launched its maternal health programme Afya Uzazi Salama, which seeks to strengthen Reproductive, Maternal, Neo-natal, Child and Adolescent health outcomes (RMNCAH) in line with its 2023-2026 health strategy.
Afya Uzazi Salama is a three-year programme which will be implemented in Narok County in its first year, where it seeks to impact 158,000 beneficiaries. Safaricom Foundation has committed KES 61 million for the first year, while AMREF is set to contribute KES 11.8 million.
“As Safaricom Foundation celebrates its 20 year-anniversary, we are keen to continue transforming lives, and health is one of our strategic pillars. By collaborating with the County Government of Narok and AMREF on Afya Uzazi Salama, we seek to improve maternal and child health outcomes in the county, especially in remote areas,” said Joseph Ogutu, Chairman, Safaricom Foundation.
Afya Uzazi Salama, will advance health interventions for women of reproductive age, newborns, children under five, adolescent girls and young women. The programme will also strengthen community-based interventions that will increase access and demand for health services, particularly in maternal and child health as well as non-communicable diseases.
Speaking during the launch, the Governor of Narok County, His Excellency Patrick ole Ntutu said “As a County, we will support implementation of Afya Uzazi Salama by setting up policies and availing the infrastructure and technical expertise needed to make it a success, so that our people can access quality health services.”
“AMREF is keen on strategic partnerships that can help us fulfill our goals in health, and together with Safaricom Foundation, we can make a considerable difference towards improving the health and well-being of mothers and children in Narok County through Afya Uzazi Salama,” said Mr. Gilbert Wangalwa, Deputy Country Director Amref Kenya.
Meanwhile, Safaricom’s other philanthropic arm, M-Pesa Foundation, hosted a medical camp in Narok County in partnership with Zuri Health and Lions Eye Hospital, which saw over 3,000 people access health services. As part of the exercise, patients from the medical camp will access free follow-up consultations for up to six months via SMS and WhatsApp.
The service allows users to add three dependents who will also receive free medical advice from doctors.