Thousands of men in Kibwezi, Makueni County, flocked to Kibwezi Sub-County Hospital to donate blood in support of mothers facing childbirth complications and other medical emergencies.

The mobilization was led by Kibwezi Township Chairman George Mwaura and the hospital’s Medical Superintendent Dr. Blastus Kakundi, who underscored the crucial role men play in safeguarding maternal health. They emphasized that men must “lead from the front” to ensure no mother dies due to a shortage of blood.

The initiative aims to boost the availability of blood for women suffering from postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), one of the leading causes of maternal deaths. By increasing the hospital’s blood reserves, organizers hope to guarantee timely transfusions and improve survival rates for mothers in critical condition.

Health officials applauded the overwhelming turnout, noting that the drive not only strengthens emergency response capacity but also nurtures a culture of community responsibility toward maternal care.

Speaking after participating in the event, Makueni CEC for Health Joyce Mutua hailed the campaign as a major boost to the county’s efforts to care for mothers with PPH and other emergency cases. Her sentiments were echoed by Masongaleni MCA Bryan Nzoka, who urged continued community support for similar initiatives in the future.

Kibwezi Sub-County Hospital Matron Patricia Mutinda and Bodaboda Association Chairman Richard Musyoka, who helped organize the event, expressed satisfaction with the turnout. They said the drive was inspired by the EWENE initiative; Every Woman, Every Newborn, Everywhere — supported by Prof. Anne Kihara through the OMMI “Okoa Mama na Mtoto” program.