Maternal health is a crucial aspect of public health, yet in Uganda, it remains an area in need of significant improvement. Uganda has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world, with an estimated 336 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to UNICEF. Many of these deaths are preventable with the right interventions and access to quality care. This is where organizations like Bulamu Access Foundation are stepping in to make a difference.
Uganda’s maternal health challenges stem from a variety of factors, including limited access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas where 76% of the population resides.
For many expectant mothers, the nearest health facility may be miles away, with poor infrastructure making it difficult to access even the most basic care. Women in these areas often face challenges such as:
- Lack of prenatal and postnatal care
- Shortage of skilled birth attendants
- Inadequate facilities and supplies at local health centers
- Cultural and social barriers that prevent women from seeking care
Complications like hemorrhages, infections, unsafe abortions, and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy are some of the leading causes of maternal deaths in Uganda. The situation is exacerbated by poverty, lack of education, and limited family planning resources, making it difficult for women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
A Beacon of Hope.
Bulamu Access Foundation is working hard to address these challenges head-on through its community health project (CoMah project). With a focus on maternal and reproductive health, Bulamu Access Foundation is dedicated to reducing maternal mortality by providing expectant mothers with access to the care they need throughout their pregnancy and beyond.
We believe that improving maternal health requires more than just building clinics. It’s about empowering communities to take charge of their health and well-being. That’s why our approach involves:
- Community Outreach and Education: We work closely with local leaders and healthcare providers to raise awareness about the importance of maternal health.
- Training for Healthcare Workers: We provide training and support to midwives, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, ensuring they are equipped to provide quality care to mothers and babies.
- Providing free delivery kits: These kits typically contain essential items such as sterile gloves, gauze, antiseptic, cord clamps, and clean sheets. The idea is to ensure that even in low-resource settings, mothers and newborns have access to clean, safe delivery conditions, reducing the risk of infections and complications during childbirth.
The Path Forward
Our goal at Bulamu Access Foundation is to create a lasting impact in the lives of Ugandan mothers and teenage girls, which is why the construction of our Women’s Health and Skills Training Center is a key part of this mission. This center will provide essential maternal health services to especially the teenage girls and pregnant women,
Here, teenage girls and women will have access to:
- Prenatal and Postnatal Care: Ensuring that mothers receive proper medical attention before, during, and after childbirth.
- Skilled Birth Attendants: Trained professionals who can assist with safe deliveries and manage complications that may arise.
- Family Planning and Reproductive Health Education: Empowering women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, spacing pregnancies, and accessing contraceptive options.
- Health Screenings: Routine check-ups to detect and treat potential health issues that could complicate pregnancy or delivery.
It will not only provide medical care but also offer training in skills that will allow women to support themselves and their families like computing skills since we are in the modern world, tailoring, and bakery among others. We believe that healthy mothers are the foundation of strong families and thriving communities.
You too can engage in this positive cause.
We are calling on partners, donors, and volunteers to join us in this critical work. Whether through financial contributions, medical supplies, or spreading awareness, your support can make a world of difference. Together, we can help ensure that no mother in Uganda dies giving life.
If you would like to learn more about our initiatives or get involved, please contact us directly via our email address.