Practical learning in action: Midwives mastering balloon tamponade skills during the 10th MAK Annual Scientific Conference to strengthen emergency obstetric care /MIDWIVES ASSOCIATION OF KENYA
When I graduated in August 2014, I wasn't certain which speciality would become my calling.
Like many young health professionals, I entered the field with a general desire to serve, but without a clear sense of direction.
That changed during my first maternity rotation, and I have never looked back.
Midwifery, by its very definition, means "to be with the woman." It is not merely a profession; it is a privilege to walk alongside mothers during one of the most transformative moments of their lives.
Yet, for too long, maternity units in Kenya have been treated as disciplinary postings for staff deemed "difficult."
This outdated practice has bred resentment, tarnished the reputation of midwives, and severely undermined Respectful Maternity Care (RMC).
The result? Women, fearing disrespect and neglect, have turned away from skilled birthing services, opting instead for unskilled deliveries that put their lives and those of their newborns at risk.
Deploying healthcare providers where their passion lies, however, completely changes this dynamic.
When midwives are placed in roles they truly desire, the quality and experience of care dramatically improve. I know this firsthand.
For over six years, I worked at one of the busiest hospitals in Machakos County, fully immersed in midwifery practice.
I found deep fulfilment in my work, and over the years, I would often encounter women in local markets who would greet me with warm smiles and heartfelt gratitude: "You were there with me in maternity when I had my baby." These moments reaffirmed what I already knew—I was exactly where I belonged.
But passion alone is not enough. To truly transform maternal healthcare, we must invest in advanced education and professional development for midwives.
When I decided to pursue a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Midwifery, our cohort was told we lacked the required quorum and would have to choose a different track.
Our hearts sank. But my colleagues and I refused to abandon our vision. We filed a formal appeal, reminding the university that we had deliberately chosen midwifery over every other available option.
To demonstrate our commitment, we attended shared foundational classes while our appeal was pending. Surprised and moved by our conviction, the university relented and allowed us to continue.
Today, I proudly hold a Master of Science in Advanced Practice Midwifery, and I introduce myself as Midwife Daniel.
My passion has since expanded into leadership as the Vice Secretary of the Midwives Association of Kenya (MAK).
Our association advocates for expanding compassionate midwifery care, aligning local midwife training with International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) competency frameworks, and actively shaping policies that safeguard the health of mothers and newborns across our nation.
We are at a pivotal moment in Kenya's maternal health journey. With the right investment in midwifery education, respectful care, and policy support, we can ensure that every mother is accompanied by a skilled, compassionate midwife.
Because at the end of the day, midwifery is not just about delivering babies, it is about delivering dignity.
Daniel Muthiani is a Midwife and Vice Secretary of the Midwives Association of Kenya (MAK).
