Rotary District 9213 Governor Ann Nkutu has called for urgent and sustained efforts to reduce maternal mortality in Uganda, citing preventable causes and limited access to quality healthcare as major contributors to the high number of deaths among women during childbirth.
Speaking at the launch of the Rotary Club of Bukerere, Nkutu emphasized Rotary’s commitment to tackling critical community challenges through volunteer-led initiatives.
“Rotary is a volunteer organization, and everything we do depends on our members—from business, professional, and community backgrounds—coming together to take action,” she said.
Nkutu pointed to Uganda’s alarming maternal health statistics, revealing that up to 14 women die every day during childbirth, mostly due to preventable conditions. “The causes are often linked to lack of access—sometimes because of cost, but more often because the services simply aren’t available,” she explained.
As part of its health interventions, Rotary has constructed a new maternity center in Bukedea District through the Rotary Club of Soroti Central. The facility aims to close the access gap by bringing essential maternal care closer to women in hard-to-reach communities.
“We are not just building structures. We’re equipping them with modern tools and ensuring that health workers are trained to manage complications,” Nkutu said. “It’s about creating real solutions that save lives.”
At the inauguration ceremony, Augustine Kirungi, President of the Rotary Club of Bukerere, expressed optimism about the club’s potential to transform lives through service.
“We are proud to be chartered members of this new club. Bukerere is a fast-growing urban area with many needs—especially in youth empowerment, education, water and sanitation, the environment, and health,” he said.
Maternal health was cited as a top priority for the new club. Kirungi raised concerns about the state of local health services, noting that Goma Health Centre—the only facility currently serving residents—is under-equipped to meet the community’s growing needs.
“Maternal health is critical. Goma is our only health facility, and it’s ill-equipped. We call on all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at strengthening our local health infrastructure,” he added.
