60 Mothers And Children In Kilifi Benefit From Nutrition Education And Free Health Checks

Over 60 women with children under 5 in Kilifi County benefited from a comprehensive, day-long health and nutrition workshop organized by Pwani Oil Products Limited in collaboration with Vipingo Clinic.

The event, which was sponsored by Pwani Oil’s Sustainability Team, aimed to provide essential education on nutrition and offer vital health check-ups for the local community. This initiative was designed to empower mothers with the knowledge they need to foster healthier growth for their children and improve overall community wellbeing.

The community workshop came at a crucial time, considering the growing concerns over maternal and child health in Kilifi County. Recent data from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (2022) highlights alarming statistics, with 18% of children under five suffering from stunted growth due to malnutrition and only 31% receiving the minimum acceptable diet.

The county’s under-5 mortality rate stands at a concerning 41 deaths per 1,000 live births, underscoring the urgent need for intervention. Beyond the statistics, the reality is even more heartbreaking—many young mothers, some still children themselves, struggle to provide for their babies, with no source of income and often coming from extreme poverty or orphaned backgrounds. Their children, the most vulnerable, bear the brunt of malnutrition, facing an uphill battle for survival and a chance at a healthy future.

The Pwani Oil initiative sought to address these pressing issues by providing mothers and caregivers with practical knowledge about nutrition and health practices that are essential for both maternal and child health. The session included growth milestone assessments, which provided immediate insight into the health and development of children, helping parents identify early signs of malnutrition and other health concerns. Additionally, the workshop also emphasized the importance of proper hygiene, which is critical for preventing infections and maintaining good health.

“At Pwani Oil, we believe that proper nutrition is the foundation of a healthy and thriving community. By partnering with Vipingo Clinic, we aim to bridge the gap in maternal and child health services and empower families with the tools they need to fight malnutrition,” said Rajul Malde, Pwani Oil’s Commercial Director.

“Our goal is not just to provide immediate assistance, but to create long-term positive impacts in the community by equipping mothers with the knowledge and resources they need to raise healthy children.”

Nuru Ali, Head Nutritionist of Vipingo Clinic, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of access to proper nutrition and healthcare services.

“Proper nutrition and access to healthcare services are essential for the wellbeing of mothers and children. This workshop is an important step in addressing proper nutrition practices and ensuring that families in Kilifi receive the support they need to lead healthier lives,” she said.

The event was facilitated by Pwani Oil’s sustainability team, which remains committed to fostering healthier communities through various initiatives that directly impact vulnerable populations. The team’s efforts focus on providing valuable resources that can lead to sustainable change in local communities, helping families improve their overall health and wellbeing.

Detrex, known for its antibacterial properties, sponsored the event to promote proper hygiene, especially among children under five, including those still breastfeeding. Endorsed by the Kenya Progressive Nurses Association (KPNA), Detrex is formulated to protect families from germs and infections. During the workshop, attendees learned the importance of regular handwashing and personal cleanliness in preventing disease. Demonstrations showcased how Detrex enhances daily hygiene routines, with Pwani Oil’s team emphasizing the critical role of good hygiene in reducing infections and ensuring healthier living for young children.

Read Also: Pwani Oil Launches Year- Round Environmental Conservation Campaign