Rotary Club of Kampala Central flags off multi-million medical equipment to seven districts

The equipment was officially handed over on Tuesday at the Joint Medical Store (JMS) in Nsambya.

The Rotary Club of Kampala Central (D9213), in partnership with Balamu Healthcare International, has flagged off medical equipment to 76 health facilities in a bid to improve maternal and child health care in communities.

The equipment was handed over on Tuesday at the Joint Medical Store (JMS) in Nsambya.

The equipment, worth Shs914 million in a grant from the Rotary Foundation, will benefit districts: Mayuge, Amuru, Gulu, Budaka, Kyagegwa, Bunyangabu and Kakumiro.

Speaking at the flag off ceremony, the Permanent Secretary, MoH, Dr Diana Atwiine applauded the Rotary Foundation for the donation which she said would boost the healthcare systems.

"This generous donation by The Rotary Foundation, is a significant boost to our healthcare system. It will greatly enhance the quality of services provided at these health centers, particularly in maternal and child health," Atwiine said.

In his remarks, the past District Governor D9213, John Magezi Ndamira applauded the Rotary Club of Kampala Central for this first consignment being delivered to 12 out of the 76 health centres.

He reiterated that MCH is one of the seven Rotary areas of focus dedicated to improving maternal and child health needs in the rural communities in Uganda.

The President of the Rotary Club of Kampala Central, Ms Marion Muyobo, said the Global Grant valued at $245,200, is an initiative funded by the Rotary Foundation, aimed at addressing the critical needs in maternal and child health care.

She added that the equipment to be distributed includes oxygen concentrators, weighing scales, and warmers, all crucial for the care of mothers and newborns.

"The initial delivery will benefit 12 health centres in the seven districts," Ms Muyobo said.

Further distributions are planned to reach the remaining facilities in the second batch

Among the equipment for the upcoming distribution include Penguin suckers, Ambu bags, Baby cot plastic, Infant incubator, digital thermometer, hand-held oximeter, Kmc beds, oxygen splinters, infusion pumps, syringe pumps, vein finders, filling cabinets, phototherapy machines and Vayu CPAPs.

Accordingly, there will also be a training and capacity building element for health providers in these facilities by Bulamu Healthcare International, some of which are ongoing.

Past president, Emmy Kwesiga, from the District Grants Committee, reinforced that Rotary was committed to improving healthcare services in Uganda.

He noted that the latest initiative was part of the ongoing efforts to support government’s mission to provide quality healthcare to all citizens.

"As the project progresses, Rotary clubs across the country will continue to play a pivotal role in supporting this initiative," Kwesiga said.

"The collective efforts of these clubs, alongside key partners, underscore the commitment to enhancing healthcare services for mothers and children in Uganda."

He called upon like-minded partners to join them in executing the project.