In a story that blends joy with deep concern, Glorious Betonde, a 40-year-old mother from Nyamufumura village in Sheema District, has delivered sextuplets—five boys and one girl—highlighting both the miracles and the mounting pressures of parenting in Uganda’s current economic climate.
The babies were born prematurely at seven months via cesarean section at Neo Care Fertility Centre in Mbarara City.
They were later transferred to Holy Innocents Children's Hospital for specialised care in the intensive care unit.
Doctors say all six infants are receiving close monitoring and interventions to support their development and survival.
"It was not an easy journey," said Glorious, recalling the difficult pregnancy.
"At three months, it threatened to come out… At seven months, I couldn't manage to move. The doctor said these babies should be removed early because the uterus was threatening to burst."
Her relief at delivering safely was laced with anxiety about the months ahead.
Her husband, Vincent Tumwesigye, a 30-year-old teacher, described his disbelief and concern.
"I always heard of such cases from foreign countries, but I think when it came to Uganda, it started with me," he said.
"Together with my family, we shall support these children—however much taking care of these six children is difficult. In case of any support, it's welcome."
The family’s situation lays bare the wider socioeconomic challenges faced by many Ugandan households.
The country’s high fertility rate, combined with a fragile public health infrastructure and rising living costs, has placed immense strain on families, especially those with large numbers of dependents.
More than 41% of Uganda’s population is under the age of 15, and studies have repeatedly shown that household size significantly affects food security and access to essential services.
A study conducted in Lira City East Division, for instance, found that increased household size negatively impacts a family’s ability to provide adequate nutrition.
In this context, the arrival of six infants at once—while medically remarkable—is a stark reminder of the social burdens parents face.
Dr Mike Kyewalyanga, a paediatrician at Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital, noted the fragile condition of the newborns and the strain on the mother.
"Much as we have these babies, we expect challenges from the mother," he said. These include difficulties in breastfeeding and the risk of respiratory complications among the infants.
He added that the hospital is following standard Ministry of Health guidelines for premature births, including feeding through tubes and breathing support.
"We shall make these babies grow. The mother needs support, and the father needs support so that these babies come out of the hospital alive."
As the couple begins life with their unexpected new arrivals, they are also confronting urgent practical needs—from feeding to housing and transport.
Their story has stirred both public awe and a renewed conversation about Uganda’s maternal health support systems and the resilience demanded of its citizens.
For now, Glorious and Vincent are focused on the basics: surviving each day and hoping that the community—and perhaps the state—will step in to help them meet the challenge.