Funded by DANIDA and implemented by International Centre for Reproductive Health–Kenya (ICRHK), this study was conducted in Kilifi County, focusing on Kilifi and Malindi hospitals.

The study aimed to determine the impact of maternity waiting shelters on maternal and neonatal health outcomes by examining utilization patterns, experiences, and health outcomes among mothers using these facilities. It compared outcomes between mothers who utilized maternity shelters and those directly admitted to hospital maternity units.

Impact
Through this study, ICRHK:

• Assessed the role of maternity sheltersin improving access to timely, skilled delivery and postnatal care for mothers in rural and remote areas.
• Documented utilization patternsand maternal and neonatal outcomes associated with shelter use in Kilifi and Malindi hospitals.
• Explored women’s experiences and satisfactionwith maternity services, identifying key enablers and barriers to accessing and using maternity shelters.
• Generated evidenceon the effectiveness of maternity shelters in reducing delays in seeking and receiving maternal care.
• Provided actionable insightsfor policymakers and county health management teams on how maternity shelters can enhance safe motherhood and contribute to reducing maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality in Kenya.