By Lydia Wanja
Over the years, Kenya has made significant progress in reducing stillbirth rates. However, it is concerning that the mortality rate for children under the age of five remains twice as high as that of stillbirths.
The rate of still births in Kenya is 19 per 1000 total births whereas the under-5 mortality rate is 41 per 1000 live births. Reduced rate of still births could be attributed to several factors which include but not limited to; increased access to health care, maternal health care, neonatal and obstetric health care, increased awareness and education and community-based interventions.
A large number of under-5 mortality cases are recorded within the rural and the slum areas. This is due to limited access to health care facilities, health education and sanitation.
Poor sanitation is the sine qua non of spread of diseases. Taking into consideration that the immune system of children is still developing, this leaves them at a vulnerable position as their bodies are not fully developed to fight infections. It is also pertinent to note that women or mothers affected by diseases stemming from poor sanitation rob them of their capacity to care for the children.
Poor sanitation does not end at open defecation, poor sewerage, lack of functional/hygienic toilets and poor personal hygiene but it also extends to improper waste disposal. In as much as technology was commended in its role of promoting the health of infants and children, it has also brought about a menace to their health.
Two Sides of a Coin
Disposable diapers were once celebrated as a game changer for caregivers, replacing the hassle of washable nappies. However, in Nairobi, they now litter streets due to inadequate waste disposal infrastructure. This uncontrolled waste fosters disease, degrades the environment, and impacts mental well-being—especially for children, nursing mothers, and the broader community. Urgent solutions are needed to address this growing crisis.
Combating this challenge of uncontrolled disposal of diapers is not a millstone to be cast on the women exclusively as they are considered the primary caregivers. It is everyones responsibility to manage their own waste. Moreover, scientific and technological innovations should be encouraged, which will lead to production of bio-degradable diapers. Their ability to breakdown and decompose quickly will significantly reduce waste and exposure to diseases and harmful chemicals.
The government has also to improve in its delivery of social amenities like waste management infrastructure. Abolition of systemic biases that currently exist will bridge the gap in access to healthcare and provision of proper sanitation facilities in underserved areas. Addressing these aspects that widen the inequality gap will ensure holistic development where no one is left behind, and the right to dignity upheld.
Education, advocacy and awareness initiatives on the effects of improper disposal of diapers have to be heightened so as to promote health, good well-being and improved quality of life for children, caregivers and the society at large.
Lydia Wanja is a Youth Advocate
