Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution provides for the right of every person to access the…
Motion text
THAT, aware that, Article 43(1)(a) of the Constitution provides for the right of every person to access the highest attainable standard of health; further aware that, poor quality of health services especially maternal care has been a recurring concern among women in the country; noting that, there is increased pre- and post-partum mistreatment and dehumanized care of women by healthcare providers, also known as obstetric violence (OBV); further noting that, obstetric violence includes, but is not limited to, disrespectful and abusive behaviour, physical and verbal abuse, neglect, forced medical procedures, humiliation and assault in healthcare settings; concerned that, sustained class- based disparities shape different maternal and infant health outcomes with women of low socio-economic status experiencing greater levels of obstetric violence; further concerned that, this not only affects women’s physical and mental health, but also impacts on the overall health outcomes of mothers and their newborns, significantly contributing to high maternal mortality rates; cognizant of the fact that, there exists no national policy or framework to address and prevent obstetric violence; now therefore, this House resolves that, the National Government, through the Ministry of Health, develops a policy on prevention of obstetric violence in healthcare facilities in the country and provides a framework for regular monitoring and reporting of cases to curb incidences of pre- and post-partum mistreatment of women seeking health services.
Tracker remarks
Awaiting debate
Source: parliament.go.ke. Last updated 5 Jul 2026.