‘Linda mama is back’- Health PS announces
By Amanga Collins, September 30, 2024
Health Principal Secretary Mary Muthoni has announced the return of the Linda Mama program, which she promises will be bigger and better.
The revamped initiative will offer expectant mothers a comprehensive package of free antenatal checkups, free delivery services, immunizations for newborns, and coverage for complications during delivery.
Linda mama return
“Linda Mama is back—bigger and better than ever! Calling all expectant mothers, you can now benefit from completely free antenatal checkups, free delivery, and immunizations for your little one, not to mention coverage for any complications during delivery,” Muthoni said.
She emphasized that registering for the program is simple. Mothers can easily sign up by dialling USSD code *147#, visiting http://sha.go.ke, or going to Huduma Centres, SHA offices, or contacting Community Health Promoters (CHPs).
Launched in 2018 as part of the government’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) scheme, Linda Mama was integrated into the existing National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) in 2020.
The program’s goal is to ensure that Kenyan women can access maternal health services without financial strain, promoting safer deliveries in hospitals rather than through traditional midwives or risky home births.
Linda mama benefit
The initiative has been vital in increasing the number of women giving birth in hospitals and offering free healthcare at public hospitals, faith-based facilities, and charitable institutions.