Health 10 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Masaka Maternity Complex Finally Opens After Decade-Long Wait
After a ten-year delay due to funding shortfalls, the new maternity and child complex at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital has begun operations, offering much-needed space and improved facilities for mothers and newborns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/new-masaka-maternity-child-complex-opens-a-decade-later-5552698
Caregivers and expectant mothers at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital can finally celebrate as the hospital management has started utilizing the long-awaited maternity and child complex.
The multibillion-shilling facility, initially slated for completion in 2017, had remained idle since construction began in 2015. The project’s scope expanded to include an intensive care unit, increasing the total cost to Shs12.2 billion, but the government struggled to secure the necessary funds for equipping and operationalizing it.
Hospital administrator Robert Mpanga stated that securing some funds prompted the decision to occupy the complex to serve the hospital’s burgeoning patient numbers. He noted that the new space has significantly improved the working environment, providing ample room for mothers and caregivers, alleviating the severe congestion previously experienced in the old ward, which had forced the use of tents.
While the new complex offers much-needed space, Mpanga indicated that additional beds are still required, as some of the old ones were too worn out for relocation. The hospital is also seeking funds to repurpose the old maternity building.
Health activists and mothers have expressed their joy and optimism about the development, anticipating a boost in maternal health services. The new complex is expected to eventually house two operating theatres, gynecology, antenatal, neonatal, labor, post-natal, pediatric, nutrition, and adolescent health units. Crucially, government-donated ICU equipment, previously unused, can now be installed, potentially ending the need for patients to travel long distances for critical care.
Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, established in 1927, serves a population of over two million people across eight districts and handles approximately 1,800 patient contacts daily, including around 40 new deliveries. The opening of the new complex marks a significant step forward in enhancing its capacity to care for mothers and children in the region.
This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.