A stronger Africa starts at birth.
Let’s talk about the strength of Africa’s women.
Women face daily challenges to keep their families safe, but they are the driving force of health change in Africa.
Women are the pillars of their communities – but their burden is heavy.
Only 48% of people in sub-Saharan Africa can access the healthcare they need – and it’s women who bear the daily responsibility of keeping their families safe, from finding water to taking care of babies, the elderly and the sick.
Improving maternal health is at the heart of Amref Health Africa’s work.
We aim to ensure that women across the continent can give birth safely and with dignity. We also support girls and women to make informed choices about their reproductive health.
Providing education and accessible services for women not only helps them, but is key to improving the health of their families and wider communities. For example, we train midwives and Community Health Workers to link women with the support they need. And through mobile and outreach clinics, we bring high-quality care to women’s homes and workplaces.
You can support Amref’s work by reading more about us, and telling your friends. Thank you for celebrating Africa’s strong women!
Hear more from illustrator Wanjira Kinyua
This illustration celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Kenyan women through their adornment. The layered necklace, a signature piece of the Turkana people, is traditionally worn by young girls and gains more strands over time, symbolizing their journey into womanhood.
The headpiece, bracelets, and armbands reflect the Samburu community's vibrant cultural attire. Unifying these elements is the kanga/lesso, a cloth used by women across Kenya in urban and rural settings to carry their children.
By incorporating these elements, I hope to showcase the enduring traditions and shared experiences that connect Kenyan women.
Wanjira Kinyua is a Nairobi-based illustrator whose work includes character portraits, as well as flora and fauna series. Her Care, Strength, Life illustration brings to life the power of women as a central force in creating lasting health change in Africa. Click this link to find out more about Wanjira and her work.
Images: (Banner) Sharon Nakayenga and baby Abdul (c) Amref Health Africa/Sarah Waiswa (2) Margaret with her son, Anafi (c) Amref Health Africa/David Brazier (3) Care, Strength, Life Illustration by Wanjira Kinyua