No Woman Should Die Giving Life”: Dr. Kireki Omanwa Rallies Kenya Against Maternal Deaths

By John Kariuki
In a passionate call to action, Dr. Kireki Omanwa, President of the Kenya Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society (KOGS), has declared war on preventable maternal deaths, vowing to end the silent tragedy of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) — the leading cause of maternal mortality in Kenya.
Speaking during the End PPH Advocacy Champions Workshop, Dr. Omanwa decried the persistent gaps in emergency obstetric care, blaming poor referral systems, delayed interventions, and underfunded health facilities for avoidable maternal deaths.
“No woman should lose her life while giving life. PPH is preventable, treatable — and we must act now,” he said.
Under his leadership, KOGS has launched lifesaving initiatives, including:
- Nationwide obstetric emergency training for frontline health workers,
- Community awareness drives promoting access to skilled birth attendants,
- And the acclaimed Run for Her campaign, which has galvanized national support for maternal health investment.
The workshop, attended by health professionals, civil society, and development partners, resolved to push for greater accountability, community education, and increased funding for emergency maternity services and blood banks.
Dr. Omanwa’s message is clear: maternal deaths are not medical failures — they are policy failures. And the time to act is now.