Call centre to report obstetric violence cases launched

The campaign against obstetric violence (OBV) in the country has gone a notch higher following the launch of a call centre to address the menace.

Recognising the rising need for immediate interventions, rescue operations, and proper documentation, the call center will serve as a centralized hub to provide affordable and reliable assistance for women affected by obstetric violence.

The call centre will coordinate interventions with healthcare providers and legal entities, collect and document cases to support research, and inform future policies on maternal care.

OBV are violations experienced by women during labour, childbirth, and postnatal care.

The call centre by Gamafrica Foundation was launched on Thursday at the Kenya Women and Children's Wellness Centre along Mirema Drive, Roysambu, Nairobi.

In attendance were representatives from Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (Kewopa), Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council, Nursing Council of Kenya, Kenya Obstetrical Gynaecological Society, White Ribbon Alliance and International Centre for Reproductive Health among other organisations.

Lawmakers present included Guyo Jaldesa (Moyale), Gathoni Wamuchomba (Githunguri), Njeri Maina (Kirinyaga County), Mwangi Teresia Wanjiru (Nominated), former Laikipia County Woman Rep Cate Waruguru, and a host of MCAs from Nairobi and Kiambu counties.

Wamuchomba said obstetric violence is a silent crisis that continues to rob women of their dignity during some of their most vulnerable moments.

The launch of this call center is a critical step in ensuring women have access to the support, care that they deserve. By documenting these cases, we are creating a foundation for informed advocacy and systemic change,” she said.

Over the past year, the Heshimu Uzazi campaign has worked tirelessly to shed light on OBV, advocate for victims, and promote a culture of respect in maternal healthcare.

The new call centre is expected to make it easier for women across the country to report violations, access professional guidance, and receive timely help and intervention in their hour of need.

Gamafrica Foundation said it conducted a survey recently which showed about 80 per cent of women have received one form or another of OBV.

Angela Nguku, founder of While Ribbon Alliance, said many women have been victims of OBV and have not known how to go about it.

“Many hospitals do not have disability-friendly beds and other facilities for expectant women. Midwives also go through a lot of challenges like lack of water and all that by why do they slap pregnant women,”Nguku added.

Kewopa said it is proud to support the Obstetric Violence Bill sponsored by Wamuchomba.