Rongo: Exclusive breastfeeding is widely recognized for its role in fostering a strong mother-infant bond and enhancing a toddler's immune system. However, the rate of exclusive six-month breastfeeding in Kenya has been declining over the past decade, causing concern among healthcare advocates. The lack of lactation stations in workplaces is a significant factor, as a majority of Kenyan mothers are working class.
According to Kenya News Agency, the Ministry of Health reports that the positive statistics for exclusive breastfeeding for six months have decreased from 62 percent in 2014 to 60 percent in 2024.
Section 71 of Health Act No 21 of 2017 requires employers to establish lactation stations with necessary equipment and facilities in workplaces. Despite this, compliance with the Act has been lacking. Rongo University, however, has taken proactive steps to adhere to the Health Act of 2017 by setting up a cr¨che for its staff and students, providing a conducive environment for breastfeeding.
Rongo University's Child Care Center, funded by the Child Fund and the Lake Region Development Programme, was established to support lactating students, allowing them to breastfeed without interrupting their studies. According to Prof. Wilson Otenga, the principal partner and patron of Rongo Child Care Unit, the cr¨che promotes inclusivity in education and provides both student mothers and their infants a supportive environment.
Prof. Otenga highlighted that the Child Care Unit operates on three principles: improving academic performance for student mothers, ensuring proper growth for children, and providing nourishment for mothers. The center has supported over 150 student mothers, with 55 utilizing the facility in the 2025 January-May semester. It also serves as a daycare for children aged six months to three years, accommodating 20 to 30 children daily.
Despite its success, the facility faces challenges such as a shortage of bedding and toys. To address this, staff and student mothers contribute Sh 50 daily for essentials. Prof. Otenga appeals for more partners to assist with resources, emphasizing the importance of a conducive breastfeeding environment.
Students like Ms. Claire Akoth and Ms. Mary Omondi have benefited significantly from the facility. Akoth can now attend classes without missing breastfeeding sessions, while Omondi no longer faces the struggle of pumping milk and rushing home. Both students praise the facility for enabling them to balance education and motherhood.
Rongo University Vice Chancellor Prof. Samuel Gudu stated that the university's initiative aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 5, which focuses on achieving gender equality and empowering women. The university is committed to advancing research and innovation in breastfeeding care.
Migori County is following Rongo University's example by planning cr¨che units in new markets under construction. According to Migori Governor Dr. Ochilo Ayacko, these facilities will support breastfeeding businesswomen, providing a space for their children to play and bond.