The latest data from the Uganda Demographic Health Survey (UDHS) and the Kampala audit unveils a grim picture of maternal and infant mortality in the region.
Despite persistent efforts by the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to boost Maternal and Child Health (MCH) indicators, the nation still grapples with one of the world’s highest rates of maternal and infant mortality.
During the fiscal year 2022/2023, Kampala, the capital city, mourned a staggering 3,404 perinatal deaths, equating to the tragic loss of an average of 70 innocent lives every week. The most heart-wrenching aspect of this statistic is that 47% of these losses were newborn deaths within the first seven days of life.
The primary contributor to this devastating toll is neonatal diseases, which account for a significant 47.51% of all cases. Leading the grim roster is birth asphyxia, making a compelling case for the urgent need to implement targeted interventions addressing this critical issue.
As Uganda continues its unwavering battle to enhance maternal and child health outcomes, these disheartening figures underscore the necessity for more comprehensive, coordinated, and sustained efforts.
The well-being of mothers and children remains a paramount concern, necessitating a united front to tackle the underlying challenges head-on.