More than 60 mothers with children under five in Kilifi County participated in a one-day health and nutrition workshop organized by Pwani Oil Products Limited in partnership with Vipingo Clinic. The event, spearheaded by Pwani Oil’s Sustainability Team, aimed to educate mothers on proper nutrition and provide essential health check-ups to improve child health and overall community well-being.
The initiative comes at a crucial time, as maternal and child health concerns continue to rise in Kilifi County. According to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey, 18% of children under five suffer from stunted growth due to malnutrition, while only 31% receive the minimum acceptable diet. The county’s under-5 mortality rate stands at 41 deaths per 1,000 live births, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. Many young mothers—some still in their teenage years—struggle to provide for their children, often facing poverty and hardship, with their little ones at high risk of malnutrition and poor health outcomes.
To address these challenges, the workshop provided hands-on training in nutrition, child development, and hygiene practices. Growth milestone assessments were conducted to help mothers identify early signs of malnutrition and developmental concerns. The session also emphasized hygiene as a key factor in preventing infections and promoting better health.
“At Pwani Oil, we believe that good nutrition is the foundation of a strong and thriving community. Through this partnership with Vipingo Clinic, we aim to bridge the gap in maternal and child health services and equip families with the knowledge they need to combat malnutrition,” said Rajul Malde, Pwani Oil’s Commercial Director.
Nuru Ali, Head Nutritionist at Vipingo Clinic, reinforced the importance of proper nutrition and accessible healthcare.
“This workshop is a crucial step in ensuring that families in Kilifi receive the support they need to lead healthier lives. Proper nutrition is essential for the well-being of both mothers and children,” she stated.
Pwani Oil’s Sustainability Team remains dedicated to initiatives that uplift vulnerable communities by providing resources and education for sustainable health improvements.
Additionally, Detrex, a product known for its antibacterial properties, sponsored the event to promote proper hygiene, particularly among young children, including those still breastfeeding. Endorsed by the Kenya Progressive Nurses Association (KPNA), Detrex helps protect families from germs and infections. Attendees learned about the importance of handwashing and personal hygiene in disease prevention, with practical demonstrations showing how Detrex enhances daily hygiene routines.
Through initiatives like this, Pwani Oil continues to strengthen community health efforts, ensuring that mothers and children have the knowledge and support needed for a healthier future.
