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Mothers in Bugangari Subcounty and neighboring areas have reason to rejoice as the government has completed the construction of an extension to the maternity ward at Bugangari Health Centre 4. This development aims to enhance health services, particularly for pregnant women.
Jaston Byamukama, the Chairperson of Bugangari Sub-county, expressed optimism about the facility’s ability to tackle the challenges faced by expectant mothers in the area.
Dr. Confidence Nsengiyunva, Assistant District Health Officer of Rukungiri, highlighted that the new extension maternity ward has a capacity of 30 beds. Bugangari Health Centre 4 receives over 1800 patients monthly, with 120 being mothers giving birth at the facility and approximately 30 undergoing operations.
Serving a population of 67,000 from three sub-counties, including Bugangari, Bwambara Bikurungu Town Council, and parts of Ruhinda Sub-county, the health center struggles with a staffing shortage, with only 60% of the required personnel available.
Gad Mugabirwe, Chairperson of Bugangari Health Centre Management, appealed to the government, particularly Minister Jim Muhwezi, to expedite the procurement of beds for the new maternity ward, which currently lacks adequate furnishings.
Rukungiri District Woman MP Midius Kaharata emphasized that the extension maternity ward would enhance maternal health services, especially considering the previous shortage of delivery beds.
Minister of Security, Hon. Maj Gen Jim, applauded the government’s investment in the health sector, citing recent additions such as an ambulance and the maternity ward at Bugangari Health Centre 4. He pledged to liaise with the Ministry of Health to ensure the provision of necessary equipment for the new facility.
Eng. Julius Bagira, the Acting District Engineer of Rukungiri, urged the hospital management to maintain and protect the facility from vandalism. The maternity ward, constructed by Rwekureijo Construction Company under the leadership of Frank Mugiri, was praised for its quality workmanship.
