Health 17 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Seven Health Facilities Bolstered with Neonatal Equipment to Combat Infant Mortality
In a significant move to reduce newborn deaths in Uganda, seven health facilities have received essential neonatal care equipment through a partnership between Bulamu Healthcare International and the Ministry of Health. This initiative aims to bring critical care closer to communities, particularly in underserved areas. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/seven-health-facilities-get-neonatal-equipment-to-curb-newborn-deaths-5598646
Seven health facilities across Uganda have been equipped with vital neonatal care equipment as part of a collaborative effort between Bulamu Healthcare International and the Ministry of Health. This initiative is a direct response to the alarming rate of newborn deaths in the country, which exceeds 30,000 annually.
The beneficiary institutions include Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, Pallisa Hospital, Kibuku Health Centre IV, Butebo HC IV, Atiak HC IV, Kibito HC IV, and Otwee HC III in Amuru District. The donated equipment spans 24 categories, featuring 15 Vayu continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, 30 patient monitors, and 15 neonatal radiant warmers, alongside 1,000 Kangaroo Mother Care wraps designed for premature infants.
CPAP machines offer non-invasive respiratory support for newborns experiencing breathing difficulties, ensuring a continuous flow of air and oxygen to maintain open airways. Richard Businge, Director of Maternal and Child Health Program at Bulamu Healthcare International, highlighted that the investment aims to make critical newborn care accessible in lagging regions where such services are often scarce or non-existent.
“For example, Otwee HC III in Amuru District is more than 80 km from the nearest neonatal service delivery point, creating a significant barrier to timely care for vulnerable newborns,” Businge explained, underscoring the critical need for localized care. Uganda’s neonatal mortality rate stands at 22 deaths per 1,000 live births, a figure significantly higher than in many developed nations.
The total investment, amounting to approximately Shs1.087 billion, includes Shs887.3 million for the equipment and Shs200 million for refurbishing neonatal spaces and training healthcare professionals. Director General of Health Services, Prof Charles Olaro, expressed optimism that the new equipment would significantly contribute to the government’s goal of reducing neonatal mortality to at least 12 per 1,000 live births.