Empowering Fathers

Recently, Ruben Health Centre held a one-of-a-kind, first-ever sensitization workshop exclusively for men, led by Prof Paul K. Wandere. The workshop's primary focus was on prenatal and postnatal care, as well as empowering new fathers in their roles as husbands and partners. The target audience for this particular training was the male partners of antenatal and postnatal mothers. Studies have shown the crucial need to involve fathers and partners in the journey of pregnancy and parenthood, as their support and involvement positively impact the health and well-being of both the mother and the child(ren).

During the training, Prof Paul K. Wandere covered various topics related to prenatal and postnatal care. This included information about the physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy, the importance of attending prenatal check-ups, understanding the stages of labor and delivery, recognizing signs of complications, and providing support to the mother during pregnancy and postpartum.

Additionally, the training focused on empowering fathers and partners in their roles. This involved discussing the importance of emotional support, active involvement in childcare, sharing household responsibilities, promoting a healthy and supportive environment for the mother and child, and fostering positive communication and relationships within the family.

Present during the training session were Belinda Kamundi, facility in-charge, Maureen Ogutu, RC onsite safeguarding officer, and Agrippina, the maternity unit in-charge. Their presence demonstrates Ruben Centre's staff commitment to ensuring comprehensive and well-rounded support for the participants and the community they serve. As a gesture of appreciation, the men were gifted with milk and flour to share with their families when they got home, validating the role of a man as the primary provider of his home.

By providing this training, Ruben Centre aims to equip male partners with the knowledge and skills necessary to actively participate in the care of their partners during pregnancy and beyond. This holistic approach to prenatal and postnatal care promotes a supportive and nurturing environment for both the mother and the child, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of the family unit.