Ireland joins Karamoja campaign to reduce maternal, newborn mortality
Gaynor, said Ireland will remain committed to supporting the country’s efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality.
The Irish Ambassador to Uganda, Mags Gaynor, pose for a photo with midwives at the maternity ward. (Photos by Olandason Wanyama)
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Over the years, Uganda has made remarkable progress in reducing child mortality. Yet, many newborns still die from preventable causes such as pre-maturity, birth complications, infections and due to a shortage of specialised healthcare.
However, these challenges are often greatest in areas like Karamoja, where distance, poverty and lack of expert services can delay life-saving treatment.
It’s against this background that Ireland has partnered with the government of Uganda through the Ministry of Health and 'Doctors with Africa’ [CUAMM], to strengthen maternal and newborn health services across the Karamoja sub-region.
Presiding over the handover of the newly built neonatal intensive care unit –NICU on June 25, 2026, at Abim General Hospital, in Abim district, the Irish Ambassador to Uganda, Mags Gaynor, said Ireland will remain committed to supporting the country’s efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality.
The Irish Ambassador to Uganda, Mags Gaynor, stands beside the NICU after the handover ceremony.
Gaynor said Ireland’s international development policy places a strong emphasis on improving maternal and child health.
Dr Peter Lochoto said CUAMM will continue to advocate and lobby for healthcare in Karamoja.
He adds that the project has been able to improve the capacity of district health management teams and healthcare interventions in the sub-region.
The District Health Officer of Abim, Anthony Okengo, said that through the project, there has been a reduction in maternal mortality.
Johnny Ariko, the district chairperson of Abim, appealed to the envoy to consider renovating Abim General Hospital, citing that the ageing infrastructure is 57 years old.
The Resident District Commissioner of Abim, Robert Adiama, also asked the Irish government to consider offering scholarships for staff in the areas of gynaecology, neonatology, paediatrics, and anaesthesiology.