RELIEF AS MAZIBA H/CIV MATERNITY WARD IS RENOVATED AND EXPANDED

By Alex Byakatonda

KABALE: Expectant mothers in Maziba subcounty in Kabale district and the neighboring sub counties are breathing a sigh of relief after the helath centre maternity ward was renovated and expanded by USAID-RHITES South West in a bid to improve service delivery in the area.

Mr. Bitarakwate Edward, the Chief of Party for USAID-RHITES South West, says that they have renovated and expanded the maternity ward and labor suite to include two delivery beds and a postnatal ward to help mothers recuperate after delivery.

Speaking at the official handover of the renovated maternity ward, Bitarakwate said that they decided to renovate the maternity ward after realizing Maziba H/C IV still has numerous infrastructural challenges, like inadequate staff accommodation and wards, among others.

He says that the entire renovation cost 53 million shillings with an aim of ensuring that the place is safe and hygienic with clean running water.

USAID RHITES South West also donated equipment, worth 6
million shillings, to help newly born babies to breathe well on their own.

The Maziba H/C IV In charge, Dr. Denis Masiko Kasigeire says that the renovation of the maternity ward and labor suite has improved service delivery and increased the number of expectant mothers seeking medical care at the facility.

According to Dr. Masiko, in January 2023, they delivered 32 normal deliveries and two cesarean sections; in February, 31 normal deliveries and 15 c-sections were recorded at the facility; and this month, they have already recorded 30 normal deliveries and 17 c-sections.

Masiko adds that the number of mothers attending the first and fourth antenatal visits has also increased.

In January, 68 mothers attended their first antenatal visits, while 33 mothers attended their fourth antenatal visits.

In February, 43 women attended their first antenatal visit, while 22 attended their fourth. 20 and 35 mothers have so far attended.
their first and fourth antenatal visits, respectively, this month.
Prima Anyijukire, one of the mothers, who delivered at the health
center by Caesarian section, says that services being offered at the facility are even better than those at the regional referral hospital.

She specifically commended the health workers for the professional care they are giving to patients admitted to the facility.

The Kabale LCV Chairperson, Nelson Nshangabasheija, who presided over handover, called on the members of the management team of the health center and sub-county leaders to keep a watchful eye on the facility to ensure better service delivery is realized.

He, however, commended the health workers for working tirelessly to fight against diseases and ensure a better health care system in the district.

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