Babies entering this world born in Kyotera and Rakai districts face a bleak and uncertain survival in their first month on earth.
Out of the total number of newborns in the two districts, 60% of the babies born in Kyotera district and 40% in Rakai died before reaching their second month birth date in 2023.
According to statistics from the non-governmental organization Health Support Organization of Babies and Mothers Alive-BAMA, a total of 269 newborns tragically lost their lives within the first month in 2023. Kyotera district recorded 162 of these deaths, while Rakai district reported 107.
Dr. William Mulindwa highlights that some of these perinatal deaths occurred within health facilities, where safety is expected. For example, Rakai General Hospital reported 58 deaths, Kalisiizo General Hospital recorded 65, and Kakuuto Health Center IV in Kyotera district documented 51 deaths.
Dr. Mulindwa expresses concern that many cases may remain unreported, particularly in rural areas, necessitating urgent prevention, review, and reporting strategies. He further notes that alongside perinatal deaths, both districts face significant incidences of stillbirths, occurring during delivery.
To address these challenges, Dr. Mulindwa emphasizes collaboration with antenatal and postnatal care service providers to reverse this distressing trend.
Christine Nambaze, head of the Maternity Department at Kakuuto Health Center IV, attributes the issue to underlying structural deficiencies affecting the capacity of health workers to provide necessary care and support to mothers. She points out shortages of essential medical supplies and a high proportion of teenage mothers who cannot afford them, leading some to turn to ill-prepared traditional birth attendants. But TBAs are outlawed in Uganda.
Dr. Edward Muwanga, the Kyotera District Health Officer, shares their concern and underscores ongoing analysis to identify appropriate responses. As part of these efforts, they are partnering with local leaders to identify and profile traditional birth attendants and semi-skilled private maternity care providers in both districts, recognizing their role in these unfortunate incidents.