Advancing Maternal and Child Health Through Dialogue

Health is not just found in clinics—it grows in communities. This philosophy guided the Maa Trust’s recent Men’s and Women’s Forums on Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health (MNCH), held in Osenetoi and Emurua Dikir.

Women's Forum in Osenetoi

With 126 participants in attendance, the forums addressed topics such as menstrual hygiene, family planning, maternal health, teenage pregnancy, STIs, and access to reproductive healthcare. What set these sessions apart was their inclusivity: men and women coming together, breaking taboos, and embracing collective responsibility for health.

Too often, MNCH initiatives focus solely on women. But these forums recognize that men must be part of the conversation—supporting their partners, learning about reproductive rights, and becoming allies in promoting community wellbeing.

Men's Forum Osenetoi

Discussion was candid and respectful. Participants asked questions, shared personal experiences, and explored how local beliefs intersect with healthcare practices. The goal was not just to inform but to empower: to equip families with the knowledge and support they need to make informed decisions.

By creating safe, gender-inclusive spaces for dialogue, the Maa Trust is reshaping how health education is delivered in rural areas. The approach respects tradition while embracing progress, acknowledging the strengths of the community while addressing its challenges.

These forums are not just educational events—they are seeds of transformation. They foster awareness, reduce stigma, and build trust. The long-term impact? Stronger families, healthier children, and a culture that prioritizes wellbeing.

In the Mara, where access to healthcare can be limited, information is power. And when that power is shared across the whole community, everyone stands to benefit.

At the heart of our maternal and child health (MNCH) efforts is our community clinic (CHP Talek Health Centre)—an essential lifeline for families in the Mara. Through this clinic, we are actively supporting safe deliveries, routine check-ups, and maternal care in a region where access to such services is often limited. 

This work is led with deep pride by Dr. Angela, the first and only Maasai woman doctor serving her own community. Her presence is not only groundbreaking—it’s transformative. Every safe birth, every informed mother, every healthy child is a testament to what happens when care meets culture with dignity. 

If you would like to support the clinic and help us expand access to critical healthcare, please consider donating here.