A pioneering digital health initiative launched by CISS in collaboration with the Ministry of Health has successfully connected over 500 expectant mothers in remote areas with essential prenatal care services, dramatically improving maternal health outcomes in the region.

The program, which combines mobile health technology with community health volunteer support, has seen antenatal clinic attendance increase by 63% across participating communities in just six months.

"Distance to health facilities has always been our biggest challenge," explains Sarah Auma, a community health volunteer from Kadongo village. "Many women would only seek medical attention when complications had already developed. Now, with regular digital check-ins and transportation support for clinic visits, we're preventing problems before they become emergencies."

The initiative uses a simple SMS-based system that sends automated reminders for checkups, delivers essential health information tailored to pregnancy stage, and allows women to report concerning symptoms for rapid response. When potential complications are flagged, the program coordinates motorcycle transport to the nearest health facility.

Dr. Otieno from the Kisumu County Hospital notes the broader impact: "We're seeing women arriving for delivery better prepared and with fewer complications. This translates to healthier mothers and babies, and ultimately stronger communities."

Beyond the technology, the program's success hinges on its integration with existing community structures. Each participating village has a support group led by experienced mothers who provide peer counseling and help navigate both the technological and emotional aspects of pregnancy and childbirth.

Recognizing the initiative's success, the Ministry of Health has expressed interest in scaling the model to additional counties, potentially reaching thousands more expectant mothers in underserved rural areas.