Kokono baby crib innovation story: Nakkazi Alexer

My name is Nakkazi Alexer. I am 20 years old. I live in Kona zone, Kazo Angola parish in Kawempe division. I dropped out of formal education after completing primary level.  I pursued a vocational course in tailoring. I haven’t been able to pursue tailoring commercially because I don’t own a sowing machine. I am a parent of two toddlers including a six weeks old. We stay at home with my parents.

I learnt about the Kokono crib from Mama Rahim who serves as the women’s representative on our Local council committee. She let us know that Amref wanted to speak to all expectant women and girls at our usual meeting grounds. At the meeting, they taught us how to use the crib and why, as parents, we ought to use it.  My friend Maria won a crib when she demonstrated how to effectively use the crib, upon challenge from our trainers. Thankfully, the team conducted a second activity and that time, gifted all expectant mothers in attendance with cribs.

The Kokono crib as a product is as helpful by day, as it is by night. I work with my mother who owns and runs a restaurant. Upon arrival, our crib is set up in a secure location. Here, the baby beautifully lies awake or asleep sheltered from flies, mosquitoes and other insects.  The product is amazing and dynamic. On occasion, I can use the mattress and net separately. It really is worth the price.

My mother is just as pleased about this crib. Whether at home or at the restaurant, our baby has a shot at comfort. She has personal space. The beauty and color of the crib makes the optics of a child sleeping in a restaurant bearable.  Even at home, the crib ensures that insect bites and suffocations are risks we don’t have to worry about.

We thank Amref for introducing this product to us and especially by way of gifts. As a second time mother, my experience this time is really hustle free as compared to the first. They need to spread the word more because working mothers in business and employment need it so much.     

Amref Health Africa

Amref Health Africa teams up with African communities to create lasting health change.