A recent donation of maternal health equipment worth Shs44 million to Rukoki Health Centre IV (now Rukoki Hospital) in Kasese District by Stanbic Bank Uganda has addressed 90% of the maternity ward's pressing challenges, according to hospital officials.
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Edward Wefula, the hospital’s in-charge, described the donation as “a lifeline that has restored dignity and efficiency to maternal care services at Rukoki.”
He explained that the donation has resolved the majority of issues they have long struggled with in the maternity ward. The donated items included four oxygen concentrators, which will ensure a steady oxygen supply.
It also comprised ten modern maternity beds with accessories, two blood pressure machines, and 200 Mama Kits, among other items. Dr. Wefula added that this boost now allows the hospital to offer safer deliveries, better neonatal care, and improved hygiene conditions for mothers and newborns.
This equipment is part of a larger consignment valued at Shs300 million, which is being distributed to selected health facilities across Uganda. The initiative was launched last week by Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, and aims to strengthen health centres that face significant challenges in providing maternal and child health services.
Since the beginning of the year, Stanbic Bank has donated medical equipment to more than ten health facilities in Uganda and intends to reach at least nine more by the end of October.
While officially flagging off the initiative, Dr. Atwine lauded the Stanbic Love Month campaign, which she said has greatly complemented government efforts in improving access to quality health care, particularly in the area of maternal health.
She emphasized that building a healthy Uganda cannot be the government’s sole responsibility. Partnerships with the private sector, such as this one, are essential to ensuring that no mother dies while giving life. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Stanbic Bank, saluting their consistent support and commitment to the people of Uganda.
Rukoki Hospital, a government facility, was upgraded from a Health Centre IV to a hospital at the beginning of the 2025/2026 financial year in July 2025. Despite the change in status, the hospital remains heavily burdened due to a large catchment population and overwhelming patient numbers. This strain has led to service delivery challenges, bed shortages, and the use of makeshift facilities.
Currently, the hospital delivers between 200 and 300 babies each month, which has placed enormous pressure on its maternity services.
During the handover, Sam Bulenzi, Stanbic Bank’s Head of Coverage, paid tribute to the resilience of Rukoki’s medical team, recalling the devastating fire in June 2021 that destroyed equipment worth millions of shillings.
Bulenzi noted that despite this tragedy, the staff emerged stronger and more purpose-driven. He said their commitment to saving lives is what inspired the bank’s decision to support them.
He further highlighted that this donation aligns with Stanbic Bank’s purpose: "Uganda is our home, we drive her growth."
Rukoki Hospital continues to serve as a key referral facility for the wider Rwenzori region, taking in overflow cases from other health centres and from Kilembe Hospital, which has repeatedly suffered from flood damage.
Bulenzi reiterated that driving growth does not only mean supporting businesses and farmers, but also strengthening vital sectors like health, education, and environmental stewardship, which are the foundation of national development.
Sylvia Atuhaire, Stanbic Bank’s Head of Distribution, explained that the donation coincides with the bank’s annual “October Love Month”. This is a time when Stanbic dedicates efforts toward community outreach and giving back, in celebration of both Uganda’s Independence and Global Customer Service Month.
She emphasized that the health drive reflects the bank’s deep commitment to supporting Ugandan communities, especially the vulnerable.
Uganda has made notable progress in maternal health. As of 2022, the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) dropped to 189 per 100,000 live births, which represents a 44% decline from 336 in 2016.
Despite this improvement, challenges persist. There are still inequities in access to maternal services across regions. Many expectant mothers do not complete the recommended number of antenatal care visits. Delays in the delivery of essential medicines and equipment remain a common issue.
Additionally, the leading causes of maternal deaths in Uganda continue to include obstetric hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders, and infections.
Kambale Frigo, the Member of Parliament for Kasese Municipality, expressed appreciation for the donation, saying it would directly impact maternal and neonatal health outcomes in the region. He thanked Stanbic Bank for their gesture and support to the people of Kasese.