Bwijanga Health Centre grapples with teenage mother cases
health facility has registered over 600 teenage mothers at the antenatal unit in the last six months.
Masindi: Medical workers in Masindi District are deeply concerned about the rising number of teenage pregnancies.
At Bwijanga Health Center IV in Masindi District, they register over 100 cases of teenage pregnancy every month. This facility serves approximately 90,000 people from 18 sub-health units.
Dr. Chris Muhumuza, who oversees clinical services at Bwijanga Health Center IV, emphasizes that this trend poses a significant threat to the future of the girl child.
Among the teenage mothers, 30 deliver at the health center, while others choose alternative locations such as their homes or neighboring facilities like Masindi General Hospital or Hoima Regional Referral Hospital.
He stresses that a quarter of these teenage mothers face challenges with delivery kits, and some arrive for delivery without any essential items, prompting the health facility to improvise.
Dr. Muhumuza also highlights the risks associated with giving birth at a young age, including the need for surgical interventions. The situation is further compounded by early school dropouts and parental negligence.
Children often leave school in primary six and seven, with some parents sending them to work on sugarcane plantations and in bars, leading to teenage pregnancies.
To address this issue, the Bwijanga Sub County LC3 Chairman, James Mudede, has implemented intervention measures. These include requiring contractors attached to sugarcane factories to employ individuals over the age of 18, prohibiting hiring children under 18 and warning children at home during school days.
Teenage mothers get support
Safe Path Mother’s Foundation Uganda is making a significant impact by providing free delivery kits (mama kits) to teenage pregnant mothers in Masindi District.
On June 13, 2024, the organization delivered 21 mama kits to support these vulnerable young mothers and ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. These kits are essential for safe deliveries and include items necessary for childbirth.
Sherifah Nabule, the CEO of Safe Path Mother’s Foundation Uganda, emphasized their commitment to supporting unprivileged teenage mothers, particularly those aged 20 and below.
By donating these mama kits, which cost approximately one million shillings, the organization aims to improve maternal health outcomes.
Nabule also encourages parents to guide and counsel their daughters to create a brighter future.
Aisha Alinda, a midwife at Bwijanga Health Centre IV, stressed the importance of seeking antenatal services and delivering at health centers for safety.
While the government supplies mama kits to the health center, the increasing population in the area poses challenges.
James Mudede, the LC3 Chairman for Bwijanga Sub County, appreciates the support provided by Safe Path Mother’s Foundation Uganda and urges teenage mothers to prepare early for delivery.
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