Masindi mothers advised to prioritise early health screening

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Masindi mothers have been encouraged to embrace early health-seeking behaviour to combat and reduce the high rates of non-communicable and other illnesses.

During Mother’s Day celebrations organised by the Safe Path Mothers Foundation (SPMF) at Masindi Hospital on Sunday, May 10, 2026, mothers were advised to undergo early screening for diseases such as diabetes, cervical cancer, TB, HIV and fibroids.

Dr Rogers Musinguzi, a public health specialist at Masindi Hospital, highlighted the issue, saying many mothers are struggling with these illnesses because they are seeking screening when it is already too late.

"When these are detected early, they can be managed," he said, noting that all necessary services are available at Masindi Hospital and encouraging mothers to utilise them.

The event, celebrated under the theme “Empowered Mothers, Strong Communities,” received praise from Dr Musinguzi, who acknowledged SPMF for organising an initiative that raises awareness on various health issues.

"This initiative is good because such activities help prevent non-communicable diseases. The country has a growing problem of non-communicable diseases because many people seek help when the situation is beyond management, which is very bad," he stated, emphasising the crucial role mothers play in the population.

Dr Musinguzi also expressed concern about mothers delivering in communities with traditional birth attendants, describing it as a dangerous practice that costs lives.

He urged mothers to deliver in health facilities and attend antenatal care at least five to eight times.

"When mothers come to the health facility, we give them a lot of education about feeding and how to exercise," he added.

Sherifa Nabule, CEO of Safe Path Mothers Foundation, explained that the organisation aims to sensitise young girls about the dangers of teenage pregnancy, empower them with sexual health education and support young mothers.

"We celebrate it every year to create awareness among mothers, to discourage mothers from delivering in communities, and to empower teenage mothers," she said.

Nabule stressed the importance of reducing teenage pregnancies and encouraged parents to support their children, even if they become mothers at a young age.

Activities during the event included aerobics and screenings for cervical cancer, HIV, blood pressure, pulse rate and random blood sugar.

Regional police commander Albertine North ACP Damali Nachuha, who participated in the event, emphasised the need for unity in supporting mothers.

"Let's always stand with mothers in all aspects, regardless of status. Let's support them in getting good health services, financially and materially," she appealed.

Grace Bukirwa, a former MP contestant for Bujenje County, underscored the need for the government to prioritise the celebration of Mother’s Day, recognising the significant role mothers play in communities.

"Many mothers are still suffering in communities due to a number of reasons, including lack of family support, poverty, isolation, and ignorance. Deliberate efforts need to be made to support mothers," she said.

More than 300 people were screened for various illnesses and received medication from Masindi Hospital health workers. Beneficiaries commended the Safe Path Mothers Foundation for the initiative.

Mother’s Day was officially established in the United States by Anna Jarvis in 1908 to honour her mother, a community activist who cared for soldiers during the Civil War, and to recognise the sacrifices mothers make for their children.

It was proclaimed a national holiday by President Woodrow Wilson in 1914 and is held on the second Sunday of May.