REACHING THE UNREACHED.

Mary going for her first antenatal check-up after being referred to the outreach clinic.

Mary, a 28-year-old mother of four from Nsenjere, was shocked to discover that she was five months pregnant while still using family planning. With her youngest daughter only one year old, the unexpected pregnancy left her worried, confused, and emotionally overwhelmed.

Before receiving support, Mary had not attended any antenatal clinic visits due to fear and uncertainty about her health and the wellbeing of her unborn child. Access to healthcare services and accurate information remained difficult in her community.

During a routine community visit, a Community Health Worker (CHW) identified Mary and encouraged her to attend an outreach clinic that was taking place in her area. The CHW later accompanied her to the clinic, where she received support from Njira Impact’s health staff.

At the outreach clinic, Mary received counselling, maternal health education, emotional support and was initiated on antenatal care clinic. The nurse guided her on the importance of antenatal care, nutrition, and safe pregnancy practices while reassuring her throughout the session.

Mary receiving counselling and support from the Njira Impact health team during the outreach clinic.

“Before coming to the clinic, I was afraid and stressed because I did not expect to become pregnant again so soon,” said Mary. “But after the counselling and support I received, I now feel hopeful and ready to take care of myself and my baby.”