Imali Ngusale, founder of the African Center for Health, Climate & Gender Justice Alliance (ACHCGA), opened the discussion with a powerful statement, “Climate change is increasingly recognized as a significant factor impacting public health, particularly reproductive and maternal health.”

Ngusale emphasized that rising temperatures, water scarcity, and extreme weather events disproportionately affect women and girls, particularly in low-resource settings. She pointed out that disaster-prone regions experience heightened maternal mortality risks, with healthcare systems often unable to meet the increased demand for services. Pregnant women, newborns, and families are among the most vulnerable, facing threats from disrupted access to care, poor nutrition, and unsafe environments.

The discussion also underscored midwives’ indispensable role as frontline responders in this crisis, “Midwives are not only healthcare providers but also agents of change in their communities,” said Ngusale. “Their ability to adapt to climate challenges while safeguarding maternal and reproductive health is crucial.”

Dr. Mazen Mlkawi, Regional Director for Climate Change and Health at the World Health Organization (WHO), echoed Ngusale’s sentiments, noting the profound intersection of climate and health.

This sentiment was also echoed by Dr. Abderrahmane Sidi El Moctar of Mauritania, who moderated the session. Highlighting findings from a recent UNFPA study, he stated, ” UNFPA ‘s study shed light on the critical role midwives can play as catalysts for climate action, bridging the gap between policy and practice in vulnerable regions.”

Izzy Rigda, an Australian policy, economics, and public impact expert, stressed that climate change exacerbates gender disparities. In her view, “Climate shocks disproportionately impact women in the global south.”

Rigda said, “Women and girls are disproportionately affected by climate shocks. Some are forced to relocate, which increases their exposure to gender-based violence. Additionally, they often shoulder the burden of securing resources for their families in the aftermath of disasters.”

She called for stronger policy measures to protect women and girls and healthcare systems are not only climate-resilient but also gender-responsive.

The panel concluded with a resounding call to action, urging decision-makers to prioritize investments in midwifery training that address gender inequities. Additionally, the panelists called for the urgent need to integrate climate adaptation strategies into public health plans to safeguard reproductive and maternal health in the face of an uncertain climate future.

While awareness campaigns and community outreach are commendable, they fail to address the fundamental question: why is a preventable disease stealing so many Kenyan women’s lives? The answer lies in unequal access to essential services. Ida Mbuthia, Healthcare Access Lead at Roche Diagnostics, emphasizes the need for accessible screening and HPV testing, yet these remain out of reach for many.

This inequity extends beyond cervical cancer. Breast cancer, the second-leading cause of death among women, also highlights the multifaceted challenges faced by patients. Jackie Wambua, General Manager at Roche, acknowledges the positive step of partnering with referral hospitals, but late diagnoses and limited access to grassroots healthcare persist.

Dr. Angela Mule, a medical doctor at Roche, warns of the alarming rise in cancer cases across Kenya, impacting not just individuals but entire families and communities. This grim picture underscores the need for a broader commitment than just cervical cancer elimination: strengthening Kenya’s overall health infrastructure is crucial.

Roche’s partnership with Kilele Health Association serves as a model: a private-public collaboration focused on people’s needs. However, it also shines a light on the systemic issues that demand critical examination.

The path to a truly equitable healthcare system in Kenya is complex. It requires collective, concentrated effort, prioritizing investments in accessible screening, early diagnosis, and quality treatment for all. Only then can the hope of eliminating cervical cancer and conquering other healthcare challenges truly become a reality.