23/04/2025
MCAs Demand Urgent Action Over Rising Maternal Deaths at Garissa County Referral Hospital
**Garissa, Kenya – April 23, 2025**
Members of the Garissa County Assembly (MCAs) have raised alarm over an alarming increase in maternal deaths linked to obstetric procedures at the Garissa County Referral Hospital. The issue, which has sparked widespread public concern, was brought to light during a session of the County Assembly.
Hon. Abdiweli Aden Abdullahi, MCA for Saka Ward, highlighted a troubling pattern of fatalities associated with hysterectomy procedures at the hospital. Reports from healthcare professionals and affected families indicate that several mothers have tragically lost their lives during or after undergoing uterus removal surgeries. Hon. Abdiweli called for a comprehensive investigation into the matter, questioning the quality of maternal care and the safety of surgical interventions at the facility.
Majority Leader Hon. Mohamed Abdi Farah described the hospital as “an active crime scene,” urging immediate intervention. Echoing these sentiments, Madogashe Ward MCA Hon. Mahat Abdikadir emphasized the urgency of the situation, assuring the Assembly that the Health Committee would present a detailed report within two weeks.
The MCAs demanded that the Health Committee investigate the total number of maternal deaths recorded at the hospital in the past three months, with a focus on those linked to hysterectomy procedures. They also called for a review of the medical justifications for these surgeries to ensure compliance with national and WHO guidelines on maternal care.
Concerns were raised about whether the surgeries were performed by licensed and adequately qualified personnel, and whether proper medical protocols—such as pre-operative risk assessments, informed consent, and post-operative monitoring—were followed. The MCAs urged the Ministry of Health to deploy a specialized team to conduct an independent investigation and restore public confidence in the hospital.
The Assembly’s call for action underscores the critical need to safeguard maternal health and ensure accountability in healthcare institutions.