There’s an urgent need for women to learn about child spacing to ensure better maternal and child health.
This is according to the Director of Programs at Population Services
Kenya Dr. Charlotte Pahe.
Pahe, who oversees the organization’s family planning initiatives, stressed that spacing pregnancies is crucial for both the mother’s and the child’s well-being, especially with the rising cost of living.
“There’s a need for families to plan their children carefully. Spacing pregnancies gives mothers enough time to recover between births, improving their health and the health of their children,” Pahe said
She pointed out that research has shown the risks associated with closely spaced pregnancies.
“When a mother doesn’t get enough time to heal between pregnancies, the outcomes are often worse, both for the mother and the child. If a woman gets pregnant too soon after giving birth, the older child may suffer neglect, and the pregnancy is at greater risk,” she cautioned
Dr. Pahe highlighted the project’s targeted approach, which tailors interventions to local contexts.
She noted that in regions with migratory communities, for instance, healthcare providers use the Manyata model to offer family planning services directly in the settlements.
The initiative, currently running in 12 counties, aims to reduce these risks by promoting family planning.
“We need to meet people where they are. In these communities, where people move frequently, healthcare providers must reach them in their temporary settlements,” Pahe explained
In areas where religious beliefs may hinder acceptance of family planning, Pahe’s team works with religious leaders to demonstrate how child spacing aligns with scripture.
“We work with Imams and pastors to make sure families feel they can practice family planning while staying true to their faith,” she said.
Another challenge addressed by the initiative is the lack of male support for family planning.
“In some communities, men traditionally aren’t involved in family planning decisions. We engage them by training them as advocates to help them understand the benefits of spacing children,” Pahe noted
The project also targets youth, especially in regions with high teenage pregnancies. She noted that they work with peer leaders to talk to young people about the impact of early pregnancies.
“The goal is to encourage youth to wait before having children and understand the importance of responsible family planning.”
Pahe also recognized the critical role of partnerships in the success of the initiative.
“Support from the UK Government through FCDO and the Ministry of Health has been essential. With their help, we’ve been able to reach more communities and promote healthier families.”
