Health 19 March 2026 Howwe Entertainment
Kawempe Hospital Slashes Maternal Deaths by Over 100 in Three Years
Kawempe National Referral Hospital has reduced annual maternal deaths from 200 to 60 over the past three years, its Executive Director informed Parliament. The hospital provides most services free, though MPs raised concerns over charges for certain procedures and external pharmacies. Source: https://www.howwe.ug/news/national/42660/kawempe-hospital-cuts-maternal-deaths-by-over-100
Kawempe National Referral Hospital has dramatically cut maternal deaths, dropping from 200 annually to just 60 over the last three years. This progress was shared by Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Byaruhanga during his appearance before Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee on March 18, 2026.
The briefing addressed queries from the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2025. MPs probed whether patients receive truly free care at the facility.
Dr. Byaruhanga confirmed that all services are free except radiology options like X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs, which generate non-tax revenue. He noted that C-section fees of Shs2.5 million apply only in the hospital’s six-bed private wing.
Committee Chair Hon. Gorreth Namugga questioned C-section costs for expectant mothers, urging clear sensitization to ensure women know what should be free. Hon. Hope Nakazibwe asked about free mama kits and potential shortages leading to patient charges.
Hon. Joseph Ssewungu highlighted nearby pharmacies, suspecting referrals for essential drugs. Dr. Byaruhanga denied official extra charges, stating they investigate complaints but can’t control external businesses regulated by KCCA.
Source: Howwe Entertainment