Mayuge mothers and newborns receive lifesaving equipment

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MAYUGE – In a significant boost to maternal and neonatal health services, World Vision Uganda, in partnership with Stanbic Bank Uganda, has handed over lifesaving medical equipment worth sh20 million to Kigandalo Health Centre IV in Mayuge District.

The donation, comprising a state-of-the-art ultrasound scan and glucometers, is expected to revolutionise how the facility monitors and manages the health of expectant mothers and newborns. For a health centre that serves hundreds of women monthly, this intervention arrives at a time of pressing need—especially amid rising cases of teenage pregnancies and limited maternal care resources.

The equipment handover is part of a broader Safe Motherhood partnership between World Vision Uganda and Stanbic Bank Uganda on July 10, at Kigandalo Health Centre IV. The initiative underscores a shared commitment to improving healthcare outcomes in underserved communities across the country.

“This partnership reflects our shared vision of a healthier, more empowered Uganda,” said Connie Nankya, Communications and Marketing Director at World Vision Uganda.

Diana Ondoga, CSI Manager, Stanbic poses with Connie Nankya during the handover event. (Courtesy/World Vision Uganda)

Ceremonial handover of equipment to hospital administration. (Courtesy/World Vision Uganda)

“The support provided today directly addresses urgent gaps in maternal and neonatal care at Kigandalo Health Centre IV, where high teenage pregnancy rates have contributed to increased health risks for both mothers and infants.”

According to health workers at the facility, the new equipment will significantly strengthen the theatre and labour suite, which previously suffered from outdated delivery beds and unreliable water supply. The ultrasound machine will allow more accurate and timely diagnosis, while the glucometers will help manage gestational diabetes and other pregnancy-related complications.

Diana Ondoga, Corporate Social Investments Manager at Stanbic Bank Uganda, emphasised the bank’s continued dedication to improving community wellbeing.

“At Stanbic, we believe that good health is fundamental to economic empowerment,” she said.

“We are proud to partner with World Vision Uganda to ensure that mothers and children in underserved communities receive the care they deserve.”

Medical staff at Kigandalo Health Centre IV expressed optimism that the new equipment would pave the way for establishing a functional neonatal care unit and enhancing emergency obstetric services—both critical in saving lives.

Kigandalo Health Centre IV serves a large catchment area in Mayuge District, providing antenatal, delivery, and postnatal services to hundreds of mothers each month. Yet, like many rural facilities in Uganda, it has struggled with outdated tools and underfunded infrastructure.

“For every child, life in all its fullness” remains World Vision’s guiding vision, and this collaboration with Stanbic Bank is a shining example of how shared responsibility can bring about lasting change.

The hum of the ultrasound machine fills the room for the first time at Kigandalo, health workers and mothers alike are hopeful that no woman or newborn will again face preventable complications due to a lack of essential medical tools.

Busoga region, to which Mayuge district belongs, has for long been battling with maternal and newborn child health, registering over 30 deaths per 1000 live births compared to the national average of 22, according to the Ministry of Health.