In a collaborative effort, the Rotary Club of Kampala South, along with the Rotary Club of Taipei in Taiwan, has generously donated crucial medical equipment valued at 100 million Ugandan Shillings. This contribution aims to tackle the existing challenges in maternal and child care at Kamuganguzi Health Centre 3, situated in Kamuganguzi Sub County, Ndorwa West Constituency, within the Kabale District.

This donation occurred during the launch of a comprehensive three-year Maternal and Child Health project at the health facility.

The contributed items encompass a wide array of vital medical tools, including a portable ultrasound scan. The donation also includes two Professional Delivery Beds, an arm-type blood pressure monitor, and weighing scales, among other critical medical equipment.

Ritah Tinka, President of the Rotary Club of Kampala South, explained that their strong commitment to Rotary's core values, particularly in Maternal and Child Health, motivated them to initiate this significant project in the area. Tinka also shared that they established a team called the Rotary Community Cop (RCC) within their operational areas. Comprising local volunteers, this team identifies specific community challenges where the Rotary Club can make a difference.

Regarding the integrated follow-up technology in the ultrasound scan, Tinka clarified that this system enables them to gather data for monitoring mothers. She added that it facilitates medical staff in conveniently tracking the progress of the mothers they assist, especially in attending antenatal checkups.

Janet Twesigomwe, the in-charge of Kamuganguzi Health Center 3, revealed that the facility serves over 200 mothers seeking antenatal services each month. Twesigomwe underscored the significant challenge posed by the lack of an ultrasound scan machine at the facility, which forced mothers to travel about 22 kilometres to Kabale town for scanning services. This inconvenience results in delays and difficulties for pregnant mothers in accessing necessary medical care.

Speaking with some of the mothers receiving antenatal services at the facility, they expressed profound gratitude for the donations from the Rotary clubs, particularly the ultrasound scan machine. They recounted previously having to travel long distances to access these services, incurring transportation costs as well.

In his address, Elvis Nzeirwe, the mayor of Katuna Town Council, emphasized that the health facility's impact extends beyond Katuna's borders, as it also serves mothers from Rwanda. Nzeirwe conveyed his appreciation to the Rotary clubs for their generous donation and pledged to ensure the proper maintenance and security of the provided equipment.

Paddy Mwesigye, the Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal and Child Health, noted that while the district has made progress by increasing the proportion of mothers delivering at health facilities to 80%, a portion of mothers still give birth at home. He stressed that this remaining percentage of home deliveries poses a significant risk to the lives of children.