JUST IN : Maternal Mortality in Kakumiro District: A Cause for Concern

A surge in maternal mortality cases in Kakumiro District, Uganda, has sparked alarm among district leaders and healthcare officials. Attributing the increase to a complex interplay of factors, they are urging immediate action to safeguard the lives of mothers and newborns.

Pregnant mother .

By our reporter . 

At the heart of the issue lies the persistent reliance on traditional birth attendants (TBAs) by many pregnant women. Despite the inherent risks associated with TBA-assisted deliveries, cultural beliefs and limited access to formal healthcare services continue to drive this risky practice. Dr Robert Senteza, the district health inspector, paints a grim picture, highlighting that around 30% of women giving birth succumb to complications like severe bleeding, obstructed labour, and sepsis, often attributable to inadequate care by TBAs.

 Compounding the problem is the district's growing population, which stretches the existing healthcare infrastructure thin. With an estimated 500,000 residents, Kakumiro has witnessed a significant influx of people since its establishment in 2016. This rapid growth has placed immense pressure on available resources, including medical facilities and skilled personnel.

Recognizing the need for multifaceted intervention, government officials have implemented various initiatives. Prime Minister Robinah Nabanja, who also serves as the Kakumiro District woman MP, emphasizes the government's commitment to expanding healthcare access. Hospitals have been established in nearly every sub-county, while ambulance services and road infrastructure improvements aim to bridge the physical gap between communities and medical facilities.

However, addressing the deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and practices that favor TBAs remains a crucial challenge. Major David Matovu, the resident district commissioner, highlights the need for awareness campaigns and community engagement to educate expectant mothers about the risks associated with TBA-assisted deliveries and the importance of seeking professional medical care. He warns TBAs of legal repercussions should they contribute to maternal deaths, stressing the government's zero-tolerance stance on such negligence.

The alarmingly high rate of teenage pregnancy, representing 24% of births in the district, further exacerbates the maternal mortality crisis. Dr. Senteza underlines the urgency of addressing this issue through robust education programs and safe environments for girls, empowering them to prioritize education and delay childbirth. Additionally, community leaders and parents must play a proactive role in promoting responsible sexual behavior and discouraging early pregnancy.

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