Relief as Maziba Health Centre IV Maternity ward gets Renovated and expanded.

By Barham Akatukunda

KABALE- Expectant mothers in Maziba Sub County and the neighboring sub counties in Kabale district, are breathing a thigh of relief, thanks to USAID-RHITES South West, which has renovated and expanded the maternity ward in a bid to improve on service delivery in the area.

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

Speaking at the official handover of the renovated maternity ward on Monday, 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.

Bitarakwate 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 breath well on their own.

The Maziba H/C IV In charge, Dr Denis Masiko Kasigeire, says that the renovation of the maternity ward and labour suit, have improved service delivery and increased on 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 caesarian sections, in February, 31 normal deliveries and 15 C-section were recorded at the facility, while this month they have already recorded 30 normal deliveries and 17 C-sections

Masiko adds that the number of mothers attending the first and forth antenatal visits has also increased. In January, 68 mothers attended their first antenatal visits, while 33mothers attended the forth antenatal visits.

In February, 43 attended their first antenatal while and 22 attended their fourth. 20 and 35 mothers have so far attended their first and forth 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 the regional referral hospital.

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

The Kabale LCV Chairperson, Nelson Nshangabasheija, who presided over handover, called on the members of the management 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 ensuring a better health care system in the district.