Kenya Records More Hospital Births as New Survey Reveals Progress in Maternal Healthcare

More Kenyan women are giving birth in health facilities, according to the latest national health survey, although declining childhood immunisation remains a concern.

The 2025/2026 Kenya Mini Demographic and Health Survey shows that the proportion of women delivering in health facilities increased from 88 per cent in 2022 to 91 per cent.

The findings were released by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) following a survey conducted across the country.

The report also shows that 92 per cent of births were attended by skilled health personnel, compared with 89 per cent in 2022. Meanwhile, the proportion of pregnant women making at least four antenatal care visits increased from 66 per cent to 72 per cent.

Teenage pregnancy figures also improved. The percentage of girls aged 15 to 19 who had begun childbearing declined from 14.8 per cent to 11.9 per cent.

However, the survey highlights challenges that require attention. Full childhood immunisation coverage declined from 55 per cent to 46 per cent, while newborn mortality remained unchanged at 19 deaths per 1,000 live births.

Medical Services Principal Secretary Ouma Oluga said the findings would help the government identify gaps in healthcare and guide decisions on where resources are needed.

The survey was conducted using information collected from 29,935 households between November 2025 and February 2026.

Its findings provide an important picture of changes in healthcare access across Kenya. While more mothers are accessing professional maternity services, the figures show that improving newborn survival and childhood immunisation remains an important task for health authorities.

The report is expected to guide national and county governments as they plan future health programmes.

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