Nakasojjo Health Centre III receives a Solar Kit from Sun King Uganda

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Midwives and patients at Nakasojjo Health Centre in Masaka are breathing a sigh of relief following the donation of solar equipment from Sun King Uganda to light up the facility.

Located in Gulama Parish, Buwunga sub-county in Masaka district, Bukoto East constituency in Masaka district, the 20-bed facility serves over 6,200 people from the 12 surrounding villages.

Though connected to the national grid, officials at the facility have bitter tales of the unstable and unreliable power, which not only affects service delivery but also puts the lives of both patients and health care providers at risk.

Dr Simon Mukasa, the in-charge of Nakasojjo Health Centre, who received the equipment early this week, noted that whenever there is a power outage in the area, the facility remains in darkness since it doesn't have a standby generator.

"It is more complicated when we receive patients that need admission, even with poor lighting, you must attend to them, and if they are not badly off, you order them to come back during the day.

For years, nurses and midwives at this facility have worked under unsafe and dim conditions, largely depending on the unreliable power supply to the area,” Dr Mukasa explained.

Ssembatya Gabriel, a worker at the health centre, recounts the numerous times mothers gave birth in darkness due to blackouts.

"Since we are in a remote area, we experience constant power outages, and if an expectant mother comes at night, the midwives find it hard to help her deliver.”

The hospital commended Sun King Uganda for transforming the facility with solar-powered lights. The donation is part of the company's corporate Social Responsibility aimed at empowering the vulnerable communities.

Peter Mugwanya, the country business lead at Sun King Uganda, reveals that the facility has been equipped with a solar Kit capable of powering at least five rooms.

"Nakasojjo Health centre III serves thousands, and their needs rely on power. We decided to donate one of the best solar kits to ensure that the residents here get services any time they need,” Mugwanya explained.

Meanwhile, the company has also opened a branch office in Masaka city to help the residents access affordable solar solutions.