Caesarean section (C-section) delivery rates in Kenya have continued to rise steadily over the past five years, highlighting shifts in maternal healthcare access and decision-making.
The national C-section rate has climbed incrementally each year—from 16.08% in 2020 to 16.21% in 2021, 16.91% in 2022, 17.55% in 2023, and most recently, 18.25% in 2024.
This upward trend reflects a mix of improved access to medical facilities and growing socioeconomic inequalities that influence delivery choices.
While C-sections are often essential and life-saving in cases of childbirth complications, the steadily rising rate raises concern—especially as it surpasses the World Health Organization’s recommended maximum of 15%.
