Kawempe struggling with teenagers seeking antenatal care

KAMPALA - Kawempe Referral Hospital in Kampala city says it is grappling with a growing crisis: An alarming rise in teenagers seeking antenatal services, many of whom are financially struggling. 

Of the approximately 200 pregnancies managed at the facility daily, 50 to 60 are aged between 14 and 19 years.

“Sadly, most of these young mothers are abandoned by their partners, who flee to avoid prosecution for defilement and the legal responsibilities that follow,” hospital deputy director Dr Racheal Nanzira says. 

“These girls are left to face the harsh realities of early motherhood—psychological trauma, stigma from their communities, increased risk of sexually transmitted infections, and even death from treatable conditions.”

Nanzira also raised concerns over persistent myths around pregnancy and responded to body signs when needed.

“Many people still believe that symptoms like high blood pressure, mood swings, and loss of appetite are normal in pregnancy. These misconceptions delay critical care and can be fatal,” she said on May 29, 2025.

In vulnerable communities like Bwaise, these issues are particularly dire. Teenage mothers contribute to the estimated 40,000 maternal deaths that occur globally each year due to hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and childbirth. 

In sub-Saharan Africa, high blood pressure remains one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Complications such as pre-eclampsia and eclampsia account for around 10% of maternal deaths in Asia and Africa, and up to 25% in Latin America.

During a community outreach session, Dr Elizabeth Mutesi urged young girls to embrace family planning as a safeguard for their futures. (Courtesy Photo)

Challenges

Hopital executive director Dr Emmanuel Byaruhanga highlighted another challenge: A severe shortage of surgical kits required for cesarean deliveries.

“Out of 200 births daily, about 50 require C-sections. But we only have 28 kits available - up from 21, thanks to a recent donation of seven kits from Women In Insurance (WIN),” he said. “Most women arrive at the hospital when they’re already in advanced stages of labour, putting both mother and baby at risk. Some die.”

During a community outreach session, Dr Elizabeth Mutesi urged young girls to embrace family planning as a safeguard for their futures.

“You don’t need a man’s permission to protect your life and future,” she said. 

“Having your first child at 14 can mean three or more by the time you're 20. Imagine raising them alone, without education or employable skills. That’s a path that often leads to poverty, and children growing up on the streets.”

As part of ongoing support, WIN stepped in with a donation of 60 Mama Kits to assist teenage mothers. Speaking at the handover, WIN representative Prossy Barbie emphasised that insurance is not just about death - it’s about life.

“Let this pregnancy not be the end of your dreams,” Barbie encouraged the young mothers. 

“We wish you a safe delivery and urge you to return to school, pursue your goals, and become empowered women. You are the future, and Uganda cannot afford to lose you. Make use of ongoing government skilling programs in carpentry, tailoring and blacksmithing.”