Uganda Calls for Action on Maternal Mortality at World Health Day Commemoration

Uganda has today joined the rest of the world to commemorate World Health Day with a call for collective action to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths. 

This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” highlights the critical importance of improving maternal and newborn health outcomes.

The commemoration is taking place at Baitambogwe HC III in Mayuge District, Busoga region. 

Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services, emphasized the need for collective action to address the high maternal mortality ratio in Uganda, particularly in the Busoga Region, where the ratio exceeds the national average.

The region has recorded 93 deaths per 100,000 live births, with neonatal mortality at 28 deaths per 1,000 live births, and under-five mortality at 65 deaths per 1,000 live births.

To address these challenges, Olaro said the Ministry of Health is working to strengthen the health system, improve access to quality healthcare, and promote healthy behaviors. According to Olaro, the Ministry aims to enhance the quality of care provided to mothers and newborns, increase access to family planning services, and engage communities in health promotion and disease prevention.

“The solutions we need, require collective responsibility and multi-sectoral response,” Olaro emphasized, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing these challenges. Olaro acknowledged the support of partners, including the Government of the Republic of Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency and the World Health Organization, which have invested $10 million over the past five years to strengthen the health system in Busoga Region.

To achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, Olaro said the Ministry of Health is working to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths. “Together, we can end preventable maternal and newborn deaths,” Olaro said, emphasizing the need for continued collective action to promote maternal and newborn health and prevent teenage pregnancies.