Glorious Betonde, a 40-year-old mother from Nyamufumura village in Sheema District, Uganda, delivered sextuplets—five boys and one girl—at Neo Care Fertility Centre in Mbarara City. The premature infants, born at seven months via cesarean section, were transferred to Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital for intensive care. Medical staff are closely monitoring the newborns, providing interventions to support their development and survival.
The pregnancy was challenging for Glorious, with complications arising as early as three months. By seven months, her condition necessitated early delivery to prevent serious risks. While relieved to have delivered safely, Glorious faces significant anxiety about the future.
Her husband, Vincent Tumwesigye, a 30-year-old teacher, expressed shock at the rare occurrence, previously associating such births with foreign countries. He acknowledged the immense challenge of raising six children but affirmed his family’s commitment to their care, welcoming any external support.
The family’s situation underscores broader socioeconomic challenges in Uganda, where a high fertility rate, strained public health infrastructure, and rising living costs burden households, particularly those with many dependents. Over 41% of Uganda’s population is under 15, and research, such as a study from Lira City East Division, shows that larger household sizes hinder access to adequate nutrition and essential services. The arrival of sextuplets, though medically extraordinary, amplifies these pressures.
At Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital, pediatrician Dr. Mike Kyewalyanga highlighted the infants’ fragile condition and the challenges for Glorious, including breastfeeding difficulties and the babies’ risk of respiratory complications. The hospital is adhering to Ministry of Health guidelines, using tube feeding and breathing support to ensure the infants’ survival. Dr. Kyewalyanga emphasized the need for ongoing support for both parents to secure the babies’ health.
As Glorious and Vincent adjust to their new reality, they face immediate needs like feeding, housing, and transport. Their story has sparked public fascination and prompted discussions about Uganda’s maternal health support systems and the resilience required of its citizens. For now, the couple is focused on daily survival, hoping for community and governmental assistance to navigate this extraordinary challenge.
