Celebrating Life, One Year at a Time – Angaza Mama's Impact in 2024

One of the core missions of REHMA Center’s Angaza Mama Program is to lower the infant mortality rate in the community. Infant mortality refers to the number of babies who die before reaching their first birthday. While Kenya’s national rate stands at 31 deaths per 1,000 live births, the reality in our community is even more staggering. The loss of a baby is so common that it is often met with a resigned acceptance—but at REHMA Center, we are working to change that.

Why Infant Mortality Matters

When a mother in our program shares that she has lost a baby in the past, it is a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be for so many women in Kenya. The pain and trauma of losing a child are carried silently, with many mothers feeling isolated and hopeless. But when they come to REHMA Center pregnant again, they hold onto a renewed hope that this time, things will be different.

A Celebration of Life

At REHMA Center, we celebrate every milestone—and the first birthday is a big one. Two weeks ago, we held a special celebration for all the babies in our program who turned one in 2024. The event was filled with joy, dancing, cake, and gifts to mark this incredible achievement. It was more than a party; it was a celebration of life, resilience, and hope.

Baby Shine was among those celebrated. A spirited little girl, she embodies the strength of her mother and the support of the community. Desmond, another little one, was also present. He is the miracle baby we mentioned in a previous update—the baby whose survival and thriving spirit remind us why we do this work.

We also celebrated Muthoni’s twin boys, Brayden and Jayden. You might remember the photo of Muthoni holding her newborn twins on our website. Today, they are healthy, thriving, and just as lively as ever. Capturing a recreated version of that photo was a powerful reminder of how far they have come—and how much more there is to hope for.

Looking Forward: 2025 and Beyond

As we approach the new year, REHMA Center is preparing to transition into a registered maternity clinic. This expansion will allow us to provide more comprehensive medical care to mothers and babies, ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive beyond their first birthday.

Thank you for walking with us through every stage of this journey. Stay tuned for more updates, stories, and ways to continue supporting the mothers and children of Mombasa.