By Peter John
Maternal deaths at Kawempe National Referral Hospital have dropped dramatically over the past three years, falling from 200 to 60 annually, Parliament has heard in a development that signals significant progress in maternal healthcare delivery in Uganda.
The hospital’s Executive Director, Dr Emmanuel Byaruhanga, revealed the figures while appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government) on March 18, 2026. His presentation followed questions from lawmakers on the accessibility and cost of services at the facility.
Byaruhanga emphasized that the hospital provides nearly all services free of charge, positioning Kawempe as a critical lifeline for expectant mothers.
However, he clarified that radiology services—including X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans and MRIs—are paid for and contribute to the hospital’s non-tax revenue.
He further noted that caesarean sections are free under normal circumstances, except when conducted in the hospital’s six-bed private wing, where a fee of Shs2.5 million is charged.
Committee chairperson Gorreth Namugga raised concerns about public awareness, questioning whether women are adequately informed that C-section services should be free in the general ward.
She stressed the need for sensitisation to prevent patients from paying for services meant to be offered at no cost.
Other lawmakers echoed concerns about hidden expenses. Hope Nakazibwe asked whether shortages of essential supplies, such as maternal kits, could force patients to incur out-of-pocket costs.
Meanwhile, Joseph Ssewungu pointed to the proliferation of private pharmacies around the hospital, suggesting that patients are often referred externally to purchase medicines.
In response, Byaruhanga maintained that any charges imposed on patients outside official policy are unauthorized. While acknowledging reports of such incidents, he said affected patients often fail to provide sufficient details for follow-up investigations.
He also distanced the hospital from nearby private pharmacies and health facilities, noting they operate independently and fall under the jurisdiction of city authorities.
The hospital’s appearance before the committee was part of a review of issues raised in the Auditor General’s report for the financial year ending June 30, 2025, as lawmakers continue to push for transparency and accountability in public healthcare delivery.
