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Suba North MP Millie Odhiambo has expressed frustration over the delay in debating the Reproductive Health Bill in Parliament, a legislative proposal she believes is long overdue.
In an emotional address, Odhiambo shared her personal struggles with infertility, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive laws to address reproductive health issues in Kenya.
The Reproductive Health Bill has faced multiple setbacks since its introduction, with critics claiming it clashes with cultural and religious beliefs. However, Odhiambo argues that reproductive health is a fundamental right that must be prioritized to protect women’s health and ensure equal access to healthcare services.
“This is not just about me; it’s about millions of women in Kenya who face similar challenges but have no platform to voice their concerns,” she said.
Odhiambo revealed how societal pressures and stigmatization of women without children have deeply impacted her. “For years, I have been ridiculed and judged for not having children. The delay in passing this bill is a denial of hope for many women like me,” she remarked. Her candidness aims to break the silence around infertility and promote open conversations about reproductive health.
The MP’s advocacy highlights the broader implications of the bill, which includes provisions for infertility treatment, sexual health education, access to contraceptives, and safe maternal healthcare.
These measures are vital in reducing maternal mortality, combating unsafe abortions, and addressing fertility challenges. “Women have the right to decide if, when, and how they want to have children,” Odhiambo asserted.
Despite her passionate plea, the bill continues to face resistance. Opponents argue that it promotes abortion and undermines cultural values, a narrative Odhiambo strongly refutes.
She clarified that the bill seeks to provide safe and legal options for women while respecting existing laws. “It’s not about promoting abortion; it’s about saving lives and giving women choices,” she explained.
Odhiambo also criticized the lack of political will to prioritize women’s health issues, calling it a reflection of deep-seated gender inequalities. “It’s appalling that in this day and age, women’s health is still treated as a secondary issue. How many more women must suffer before we act?” she questioned.
Her heartfelt appeal has garnered support from several women’s rights organizations and activists who echo her call for urgency. They argue that delaying the debate only exacerbates the challenges women face daily, from lack of access to reproductive healthcare to stigma surrounding infertility.
The Suba North MP concluded by urging her colleagues in Parliament to put aside political and cultural differences for the greater good. “This bill is not just about me wanting a child. It’s about giving every woman the right to dream, the right to hope, and the right to live a life of dignity,” she said.
Millie Odhiambo’s impassioned advocacy serves as a reminder of the critical role lawmakers play in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. Her fight for the Reproductive Health Bill underscores the urgent need to prioritize the well-being of women across Kenya.
