For years, the facility has faced devastating losses, with health workers reporting that out of every ten babies born each month, eight die from complications such as lack of oxygen.
The remoteness of the Ssese Islands often means transfers to Masaka Referral Hospital come too late, with many infants dying on the journey.
The new incubator, unveiled at a ceremony attended by Rotary Clubs from Wakiso, Kampala, Muyenga, Kalangala Ssese, and others, is powered by solar energy to counter unreliable electricity supply.
It is valued at over Shs70 million.
“The lack of an incubator has meant that we often lose babies due to respiratory distress,” said Rosemary Tumusiime, in-charge of the maternity ward. “Sending mothers and newborns to Masaka is dangerous, and many don’t survive the trip across the lake.”
Dr Frank Kisakye, head of the facility, stressed the urgent need for more infrastructure and resources.
“The sheer number of patients we see daily is overwhelming. Our facility needs expansion to meet the healthcare demands of all 53 Ssese Islands,” he said.
Government officials welcomed the donation. Fred Badda, the Presidential Representative for the region, called it “a significant step toward addressing a critical issue” but urged for more support.
Rotary Club of Muyenga President Kenneth Lubango, who spearheaded the initiative, said the shocking infant death rates compelled action.
“This incubator, with its uninterrupted solar power, will greatly improve newborn survival rates. It’s proof of what collective action can achieve,” he noted, adding that the machine’s design ensures reliability even during low sunlight periods.
Rotary District 9214 Governor Christine Kyeyune reaffirmed Rotary’s commitment to working with government to improve healthcare, education, sanitation, and development.
This is not Rotary’s first intervention in Kalangala. In 2022, the organisation donated three motorcycles with sidecars to help transport expectant mothers and newborns from remote islands to the health centre.
The latest donation is expected to transform maternal and child healthcare on Kalangala Island, offering not just a critical medical tool but also renewed optimism for the community’s future.
Sustained cooperation between Rotary, local authorities, and the public will be key to ensuring these gains endure for generations.