Kisumu: A wave of excitement and happiness lit-up the Maternity Unit at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH), as mothers joyfully welcomed newborns at the close of 2025 and the dawn of 2026.
According to Kenya News Agency, since the stroke of midnight on December 31, the hospital has recorded 12 new deliveries, each bringing hope, laughter, and blessings for families across Kisumu County.
Among the first to ring in the New Year with a newborn was 26-year-old Beryl Achieng from Seme, who welcomed her first son, Nillan Bilal, after two daughters. The baby arrived Wednesday night following a two-hour labor, delivered naturally under the skilled care of JOOTRH’s maternity team.
For Beryl, this birth carries special significance. ‘Having a son after my two daughters is a dream come true. We chose the name Bilal because it means ‘water’ – refreshing and full of life. I hope he grows up strong and brings joy to our family,’ she said, her eyes glistening with happiness.
Beryl, who attended antenatal clinics at Kombewa Sub-county Hospital, opted to deliver at JOOTRH, citing its reputation as a National Referral Hospital, equipped with the resources and staff to handle complex births. ‘The nurses were patient and attentive. They guided me at every step, and I felt safe and confident,’ she recalled.
Beryl hopes to be discharged later today, with her ‘jewel’ – a healthy baby boy, eager to begin her journey as a mother of three. Sharing the ward’s joy was 25-year-old Hadijah Mlongo from Ogango in Kisumu East Sub-county, who welcomed her second son, Heziel Twalib, yesterday night.
Twalib, derived from Arabic, means ‘seeker’ or ‘student,’ reflecting her parents’ hopes that he will grow curious, wise, and knowledgeable. Hadijah, who also delivered her first child at JOOTRH, praised the hospital for consistently providing quality care. ‘The education we received during my first pregnancy on newborn care, breastfeeding, and essential dos and don’ts really helped. This second birth was calm and confident because I knew what to expect,’ she said.
She hailed and described the nurses’ dedication, their encouragement, and their support throughout the labor as invaluable. The Maternity Ward was alive with joy, as nurses and midwives celebrated the start of 2026 with their newest patients.
The JOOTRH team, known for its commitment to maternal and child health, wished every mother and baby good health, strength, and a blessed start to the year. Dr. Esther Achieng, a senior obstetrician at JOOTRH, noted that the surge of deliveries over the New Year period is common as families plan for a safe and memorable start to the year. ‘Every birth is a story of hope and resilience. We are privileged to support mothers and families at this special time,’ she said.
As Kisumu County begins 2026, the laughter of newborns and the smiles of proud parents at JOOTRH serve as a reminder of life’s enduring blessings, new beginnings, and the joy that each child brings into the world.