Ministry of Health flags off medical equipment to boost maternal care in Karamoja
Under the project, CUAMM will also support the functionalisation of Karita Health Centre IV and the blood bank at Moroto Regional Referral Hospital, a development expected to significantly improve access to emergency blood transfusions across the region.
The Ministry of Health flagged off medical equipment and supplies destined for Nabilatuk and Karita Health Centre IVs in a move aimed at strengthening maternal and newborn health services in the Karamoja sub-region.
The equipment was provided through a partnership between Doctors With Africa (CUAMM) and the ELMA Foundation, targeting hard-to-reach and underserved communities. The initiative seeks to improve access to quality healthcare and ensure that no mother, newborn, or child is left behind.
Under the project, CUAMM will also support the functionalisation of Karita Health Centre IV and the blood bank at Moroto Regional Referral Hospital, a development expected to significantly improve access to emergency blood transfusions across the region.
The consignment includes blood pressure machines, vacuum extractors, mattresses, mosquito nets, a high-output generator, hospital bed sheets, blankets, and other essential medical supplies required for maternal and newborn care.
The equipment was officially received by the Commissioner for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health, Dr. Richard Mugahi, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Diana Atwine.
Dr. Mugahi said the Ministry attaches great importance to the support, noting that it will play a critical role in reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths, particularly in remote areas.
“We take this support very seriously. We know the impact this equipment is going to have in our mission to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths,” Dr. Mugahi said. “Karita is one of the most remote and disadvantaged areas in the Karamoja region, and the lack of a steady electricity supply has made it difficult to fully operationalise the theatre and wards. The high-output generator will help power these units and improve service delivery.”
Karamoja continues to face unique healthcare challenges linked to geography, infrastructure gaps, and limited access to essential services. The Ministry of Health said partnerships with development organisations remain critical in closing these gaps and improving health outcomes for vulnerable populations in the region.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to working with partners to strengthen health systems and expand access to lifesaving services in underserved parts of the country.
