A Call For Compassion: Harriet Afandi’s Journey as a Maternal Health Advocate.
Harriet Afandi’s inspiring journey as a maternal health advocate sheds light on the hardships faced by pregnant women as they navigate the often treacherous path to
accessing quality healthcare. Her efforts not only reveal the depths of the issue but also point toward innovative solutions that could transform the landscape of maternal health
in the country. Expectant mothers across Kenya embark on a journey of hope as they anticipate bringing new life into the world. However, the path to safe and dignified maternal healthcare is often riddled with obstacles, exposing them to not only medical challenges but also abusive treatment at the hands of healthcare officials. Driven by her own
experiences and compassion, Harriet Afandi, a Change Leader with Nguvu Collective, has emerged as a relentless advocate for these women.

“Recent incidents, such as the heart-wrenching video of Judy Wambui’s plea for help at Kiambu Hospital, have brought to light the stark reality of the mistreatment faced by
expectant mothers in some healthcare facilities. Neglect, abuse, discrimination, and abandonment have become grim realities for many, tarnishing the sanctity of what should be a joyous occasion” Harriet Afandi observes as she discusses her petition on change.org platform appealing to the cabinet secretary for health Madam Susan Nakhumicha and the council of governors to move swiftly and address the systemic
issues affecting the public hospitals in Kenya.Undeniably, at the heart of this issue lies the role of the government in ensuring that proper access to quality healthcare is a reality, especially for expectant mothers. The rising cases of harassment and abuse as was seen in Kiambu Hospital’s premises underscore the need for immediate intervention. Harriet Afandi’s advocacy echoes the sentiment that it is the right of every citizen, including pregnant women, to receive the
highest standard of care, safeguarding both their own health and that of their unborn babies.There is an urgent need for comprehensive systemic transformation. The critical link
between facility-based deliveries, skilled birth attendance, and maternal health becomes all the more evident in the wake of these incidents. The petition at the center of Harriet Afandi’s advocacy highlights the urgency of change. The call for the Kiambu Governor, Hon. Kimani Wamatangi, to disclose the findings of the investigation, coupled with updates on corrective measures, signifies a demand for
accountability. As the petition rightly emphasizes, every citizen has the right to reproductive healthcare, ensuring safe pregnancies, childbirth, and postpartum periods.
“Kiambu hospital is a case example but we must understand that this is not a battle for just one region—it’s a call for nationwide change. With overwhelming evidence
indicating the direct impact of access to skilled healthcare on maternal and newborn mortality rates, the urgency cannot be overstated” Afandi observes as she reiterates her
call for a healthcare system that is compassionate, patient-centered, and committed to safe deliveries for every mother and her unborn child.In the face of adversity, Harriet Afandi’s unwavering determination underscores the
power of individuals to drive change. Her journey amplifies the collective voice demanding better healthcare for expectant mothers, and a system that values the lives of those bringing new life into the world. It’s a journey toward a brighter, more
compassionate future—one where every mother’s experience is characterized by respect,dignity, and quality care.

Harriet observes that together, if we join the movement for maternal health advocacy we can create a healthcare system that mirrors the compassion and care that every mother
deserves. Through collective action, she believes that we can usher in a new era of safe deliveries, healthier mothers, and stronger communities.

By Change Leader – Harriet Afandi
Petition

Link:https://www.change.org/Ensurematernaljustice