By Kamara Daniel
The Busoga sub-region is on the brink of a major advancement in healthcare infrastructure, thanks to a significant new project spearheaded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the World Health Organization (WHO). This initiative will see the refurbishment of 28 health facilities across the region and the installation of state-of-the-art rainwater harvesting systems.
The refurbishment effort aims to revitalize and modernize existing healthcare infrastructure, focusing on upgrading critical areas such as medical equipment, patient wards, and sanitation facilities. This comprehensive overhaul will enhance the quality of care provided, ensuring that healthcare workers have the tools and environment necessary to deliver effective and compassionate services.
The project was opened in Mayuge District, at Baitambogwe HC111.
The Health Department of Mayuge district serves a population of 615,200 people with a mission of attaining a good standard of health for the entire people in the district to promote a healthy and productive life amongst them.
The department is served by three health sub-districts with a health centre IV in each. Currently a total of 73 health facilities report in the DHIS2 (District Health Information System).
Simultaneously, the installation of rainwater harvesting systems represents a pivotal step towards sustainability and resilience in the healthcare sector. These systems will be strategically placed at each facility to capture and store rainwater, which will be used for non-potable purposes such as irrigation, cleaning, and toilet flushing. This approach not only reduces dependence on traditional water sources but also helps manage water resources more effectively in the face of varying climatic conditions.
The integration of rainwater harvesting systems brings multiple benefits. It contributes to significant cost savings on water procurement, promotes environmental sustainability, and enhances the reliability of water supply in areas where access to clean water may be inconsistent.
By adopting these systems, the health facilities will be better equipped to handle both everyday operations and emergencies, ensuring a steady supply of water for essential functions. This project underscores the collaborative efforts of KOICA and WHO in addressing both immediate healthcare needs and long-term sustainability goals.
The engagement of local communities and stakeholders has been central to the planning and implementation phases, ensuring that the project aligns with the specific needs of the Busoga sub-region and maximizes its impact.
The breakdown of health facilities in Mayuge District; Level of the health facility; hospital ( Buluba), No 01, ownership; private not for profit. H/C IVs No 03 ownership, Government. H/CIIIS NO 11, Government. H/CIIS No 20 Government. H/C IIs No 08 for private Not for profit. H/CIIs NO 03 for government(prisons).H/CIIs NO 28 for private.
Community structure;- The department has a vibrant community structure which supports in the extension of health services to the lowest community. This structure is majorly comprised of VHTs and the community Extension Health Workers (CHEWs) who were recently added to the community structure. The VHTs are over 1536 while the active CHEWs are 165.
Mayuge has been privileged to be one of those districts in the Busoga region that have benefited from KOICA support on the Health systems strengthening for improving the Reproductive Maternal Newborn, child and Adolescent Health (RMNCAH) Project.
From the inception of the project, a lot of achievements have been registered such as; More than 100 midwives and Nurses plus clinical officers and medical officers receiving refresher training in Antenatal care, Postnatal care, Family Planning, Kangaroo Mother care, Adolescent health, helping Babies Breath BEmONC and CEmONC.
One Ambulance for emergency referrals was provided in 2021 and it is still in good mechanical condition and as well as the district Ambulance committee was trained. The ambulance team was provided with uniforms.
RMNCAH reference materials have been provided for health workers to use, IPC materials for Covid 19 were provided, Students and teachers trained in Sexual Reproductive Health (SRH), officers have been trained in RMNCCAH leadership, and supported reporting by provision of phones to health facilities.
6H/Fs (Katerere, Kigandalo, Baitambogwe, Wabulungu, Bwonda and Bugoto) have been provided with MCH equipment from KOICA- WHO.
Highlighted Achievements in Mayuge District.
The competence and skills of health workers in providing RMNCAH services has improved; Increase of ANC 1st trimester from 20% to 26%, Increase of ANC4+ visits from 34% to 41%, Institutional deliveries from 32% to 45%, an increase in postnatal care from 15% to 30% and Maternal death surveillance and review at 100%.
Perinatal death surveillance and review have increased to over 80%, Fully immunised children from 70% to 81%, Teenage pregnancies have stagnated at 23%, and So far 6H / facilities upgraded to level III i.e. Jagusi, Busala, Bukatube, Nkumbe, Buyugu and Muggi.M
Expectation
We expect increased access to health services, especially material, newborns, and child and adolescent health services. This will therefore result in tremendous improvement in performance in the RMNCAH indicators.
The launch of this initiative marks a significant milestone in advancing the healthcare infrastructure of the Busoga sub-region. By enhancing facility standards and integrating innovative water management solutions, KOICA and WHO are setting a benchmark for future development projects, demonstrating a commitment to improving healthcare delivery while promoting environmental responsibility. This initiative not only promises to elevate healthcare services but also to inspire similar efforts across other regions.
The writer is- Nutritionist at Bwindi Community Hospital,
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