Preterm births overwhelm Kitgum government hospital

25 March 2024, 6:49 pm

By Otim Moses Arapmoi

The Pediatrics and Child Health Department at Kitgum Government Hospital is overwhelmed with the number of premature babies, according to the head of the unit, Dr Casta Robert Okumu.

Dr Okumu said the overwhelming numbers are compounded by the lack of advanced equipment to monitor the premature babies and the constant power blackouts that risk the lives of the babies.

He now calls on the government and development partners to support the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to avoid the risk of losing babies.

Mr. Otto Ventorino the President of the Rotary Club of Kitgum said they have been informed about the state of the Neonatal Care Unit at Kitgum Government Hospital and will liaise with partners to secure resources so that the facility gets a facelift to be able to safe more preterm babies.

Ms. Tina Bauer-Odong from the Rotary Action Group for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Heath – Germany lauded the medical team at Kitgum government hospital for their efforts amidst numerous challenges and committed the support of the Rotary Group in Germany to strengthen the capacity of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.