President Yoweri Museveni has commended nurses and midwives across Uganda for their unwavering dedication to saving lives and improving the nation’s healthcare system.
In a speech delivered by Vice President Maj. Jessica Alupo during celebrations to mark International Nurses and Midwifery Day in Kumi District on May 23, 2025, President Museveni hailed the health professionals as a formidable force in restoring the health of the sick.
“We salute you for being a critical force in ensuring that the sick are cared for until their health is restored. You are true change-makers who deserve recognition not only today but every day,” Museveni stated.
The President emphasized the invaluable role nurses and midwives play globally, describing them as frontline heroes who administer and monitor treatment, advocate for improved facilities, and ensure quality care through continuous collaboration with doctors.
He acknowledged the risks they face at their stations of duty, often putting their own lives on the line to alleviate suffering and save others.
“As long as the world exists, babies will continue to be born, and midwives will remain essential in providing care to pregnant mothers before, during, and after delivery,” he said. “We commend your contribution to the continuity and existence of humanity.”
President Museveni also praised their efforts during public health crises, including Uganda’s past epidemics, noting that the country’s steadily improving health indicators, such as the significant decline in mortality rates reported in the 2022 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey are a testament to their work.
He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health for its oversight and leadership, and lauded the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC) for its role in upholding high professional standards.
“We commend the Council for its continued guidance and for elevating Uganda’s profile in the region and globally in terms of nursing and midwifery standards,” Museveni said.
He further noted that Ugandan nurses and midwives are in high demand internationally due to their professionalism and competence.
While acknowledging challenges such as insecurity, limited resources in remote areas, and public health emergencies, Museveni applauded nurses for their resilience, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“You risked your lives and met the expectations of your profession. For that, we thank you,” he said.
Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, also commended the nurses and midwives for their professionalism. She reassured them of the government’s commitment to strengthening the health sector through improved services, access to alternative medicine, and specialized treatments.
Justus Cherop, President of the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Union, condemned the continued arrests of nurses and midwives following patient deaths, particularly in cases where patients are referred to other facilities.
“Sometimes nurses are arrested even when they’ve done their best to save a life. This issue must be addressed,” Cherop said.
He also called for the amendment of the Nurses Act, noting that it was enacted in the 1990s and no longer reflects the realities of modern healthcare.
