By Kabuye Ronald
Health experts have underscored the urgent need for a multi-disciplinary strategy to address the alarmingly high maternal mortality rate in Uganda.
With 287,000 mothers and four million children dying annually from preventable pregnancy and childbirth complications worldwide, nearly 95% of these deaths occur in the developing world, including Uganda, where the maternal mortality rate is reported at 169 deaths per 100,000 live births.
Dr. Mushin Nsubuga, Executive Director of Save The Mothers East Africa, highlighted the root causes of this crisis during a media engagement executed in partnership with Uganda Journalists Association UJA at Uganda Christian University (UCU) in Mukono on Wednesday. He identified critical delays in seeking medical care, accessing healthcare facilities, and receiving appropriate treatment due to shortages of medical staff, medicine, and blood as major contributing factors.
“At Save the Mothers, we believe that addressing this issue requires more than just improving healthcare infrastructure. A multi-disciplinary approach is crucial,” Dr. Nsubuga said. “The responsibility extends beyond health professionals. Communities where mothers reside must undergo significant transformation to effectively combat this crisis.”
Dr. Nsubuga emphasized the pivotal role of journalists in this effort. “Journalists are essential in setting the development agenda, shaping public opinion, and advocating for key issues such as maternal and child health,” he stated. “By working together, we can combine our strengths in communication and health expertise to make a meaningful impact on maternal and child health in Uganda and beyond.”
During the event, journalists were introduced to the Master in Public Health Leadership (MPHL) program, an initiative by Save The Mothers aimed at reducing maternal and child deaths.
Teopista Aguti, Communications and Publicity Health Specialist at UCU, explained that the MPHL program trains multidisciplinary professionals to drive change within their communities. “The program is open to professionals from various fields worldwide,” Aguti noted.
The MPHL program, which spans two years, is delivered 70% online and 30% in-person. Applications are now open, and interested candidates can apply online. Graduates of the program will join a network of professionals dedicated to improving maternal health.
To apply for the Master in Public Health Leadership (MPHL) program:
- Apply online at UCU Application Portal
- Download and complete the postgraduate application form
- Submit a copy of your CV and a 500-word motivational essay along with the application form to the following emails:
- arpublichealth@ucu.ac.ug
- jnamyalo@ucu.ac.ug
- EAdirector@savethemothers.org
