Maternal Child Health Support Programme at the Ruben Centre

The Ruben Centre is located in Mukuru, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements, where many people live in extreme poverty with limited access to clean water, sanitation, and healthcare. The Ruben Centre provides inclusive education, community-based healthcare, economic empowerment programmes and advocacy to break cycles of poverty and build a more just society.

The Maternal Child Health Support Programme was set up in 2013 at the Ruben Health Clinic to address the community's poor maternal, neonatal, and child health by aiming to reduce infant and maternal mortality, improve health and nutrition of families, and provide health education. After a successful pilot project, the initiative was fully integrated into the primary healthcare programme at the centre. In May 2018, the Birthing Unit at the Ruben Centre was opened to provide 24/7 free, safe and dignified birthing experiences for the mothers of the Mukuru community.

From safe deliveries to antenatal services and family planning, the centre ensures every woman has access to the support she needs. Their work extends to HIV care and vaccinations, promoting overall community health. To empower vulnerable mothers, they offer nutrition, cooking, and urban farming classes, helping them build sustainability while also providing for their families. Mothers and babies are also supported throughout the early years through vaccinations and screening for childhood diseases.