Although Tanzania has shown improvement in reducing of under-five child mortality, but has
demonstrated slower progress on reducing preterm deaths(Abubakari S Gwelo, 2019). Tanzania
is approximately to have neonatal mortality of 19 deaths per 1000 live births, with prematurity
contributing to 25% of neonatal deaths (The United Nations Children’s Fund Tanzania, 2015). It
is estimated that about 51,000 newborn are dying and 43,000 are preterm and low birth weight
babies occurs every year (Marya Plotkin, 2018). Unpublished data from Dodoma Regional
Referral Hospital shows increased numbers of preterm deaths and 5 out of 30 babies have poor
weight gain (HMIS, 2018).Most preterm deaths could be potentially prevented with
improvements in intrapartum, postpartum and neonatal care, Kangaroo Mother Care inclusive
(Marya Plotkin, 2018). Studies indicates that KMC is associated with health benefits to neonates,
parents and the health system as it promotes parent- child bonding and breastfeeding, and
stabilizes the vital signs of the neonate, particularly body temperature, heart and respiratory rates,
leading to increased weight gain and improved growth (Bayo, Alobo, Feyissa, & Belaid, 2019).
Since prematurity is associated with increased risk of hypothermia, KMC remains a veritable
tool in reducing perinatal mortality rates (Uwaezuoke, 2017)Despite the introduction KMC as an
effective intervention alternative to conventional for preterm care to promote growth mainly in
developing countries but still there is high number preterm deaths some of babies fail to gain
weight (Jm, 2011).
However, study done at Mwananyamala hospital, Dar es Salaam on challenges facing mothers
who practice kangaroo mother care showed poor knowledge on Kangaroo Mother Care
(Kiwanuka, Tarabani, Mbao, & Kisanga, 2017). Little is known on the competence regarding
KMC among postnatal mothers after discharge home. Therefore the study aims to assess
competence of postnatal mothers regarding KMC and outcomes of the preterm babies during
their return visits to hospital after discharge.