By Judith Grace Amoit
Kampala, Uganda – During the 2024 World Prematurity Day commemoration, Nsambya Hospital reaffirmed its dedication to improving neonatal care, pledging expanded services for premature babies and their families. Dr. Andrew Ssekitooleko, the hospital’s Executive Director, announced plans to enhance the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and strengthen healthcare training programs.
Under the theme “Small Actions, BIG IMPACT: Immediate Skin-to-Skin Care for Everybody, Everywhere,” Dr. Ssekitooleko emphasized the hospital’s focus on quality care, research, and innovation in addressing prematurity. “We commit to training our staff to become excellent and to training other institutions as well,” he stated.
Dr. Andrew Ssekitooleko, Nsambya Hospital Executive Director
He acknowledged the contributions of stakeholders such as the Preterm Care and Advocacy Association, whose support has equipped the hospital with essential tools for neonatal care. However, he also highlighted the emotional and financial toll on families, noting societal stigma and misconceptions surrounding premature births.
The Challenge of Prematurity in Uganda
Recent data from the 2022 Uganda Demographic and Health Survey show a modest reduction in neonatal mortality rates—from 27 deaths per 1,000 live births a decade ago to 22. Despite this progress, neonatal deaths remain high, with many stemming from preventable causes that could be addressed through evidence-based interventions.
Dr. Ssekitooleko underscored the role of breastfeeding and kangaroo mother care (KMC) in improving survival outcomes for premature babies. “We ensure our babies are treated in the safest way possible by initiating breastfeeding early and promoting prolonged breastfeeding,” he explained.
He committed to supporting initiatives that benefit premature babies, stating, “I vow to fight tooth and nail to ensure these babies receive the care and resources they need.”
Partnerships and Advocacy
Dr. Victoria Nakibuuka
Dr. Victoria Nakibuuka, Head of the Paediatrics Department, highlighted the critical role of partnerships in improving survival rates for premature babies. “Collaboration with other organizations is vital to advocate for better services and care,” she said.
She also referenced research underscoring the benefits of kangaroo mother care, including improved brain development and intelligence among premature infants. Additionally, she emphasized the need for routine hearing screenings, as premature babies are at heightened risk of hearing impairments due to prolonged NICU exposure.
Dr. Nakibuuka appealed for support in acquiring a hearing screening machine, which would allow the hospital to detect and address hearing issues early.
Addressing Prematurity with Action
Sr. Dr. Nabawanuka Assumpta, Director of Clinical Services, paid tribute to mothers of premature babies, commending their resilience and dedication. “You are our heroes. Thank you for your bravery,” she said, acknowledging the physical and emotional challenges these mothers face.
Prematurity remains a pressing issue in Uganda, where 10% of babies are born prematurely, and 80% of NICU admissions at Nsambya Hospital involve preterm infants. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Uganda records approximately 226,000 preterm births annually—the highest rate in sub-Saharan Africa. This stark statistic highlights the need for strengthened neonatal care systems and public health interventions.
Dr. Nabawanuka urged healthcare workers, administrators, and families to collaborate in addressing prematurity. “We must prepare resources and systems to handle this reality,” she stressed.
Inspiring Testimonies and Community Engagement
The event featured powerful testimonies, including that of “Mama Josiah,” whose baby, born weighing just 100 grams, overcame life-threatening complications with the support of the hospital staff. “I kept confessing that God is real… I could not forget to pray,” she shared, crediting kangaroo care and her faith for her son’s recovery.
Another highlight was the story of Esther Nakajubi, a NICU nurse and breast milk donor, who shared her motivation to help struggling mothers in the NICU. “When a baby in the NICU needs milk, it’s a race against time,” she explained. Having faced her own breastfeeding challenges, Nakajubi began donating her excess milk to save lives.
Advocacy for Hearing Screening
Angella Kobusingye, representing Let Children Hear, stressed the importance of hearing screenings for premature babies. “Hearing issues are not immediately noticeable but can severely impact a child’s development if undetected,” she cautioned.
Kobusingye called on Nsambya Hospital to support the acquisition of a hearing screening machine, emphasizing its potential to significantly enhance early intervention capabilities.
Sustaining the Fight Against Prematurity
World Prematurity Day 2024 at Nsambya Hospital showcased a united commitment to advancing neonatal care, education, and research. Through partnerships, community engagement, and sustained investment, the hospital reaffirmed its dedication to improving outcomes for premature babies and their families.
Dr. Ssekitooleko concluded with a pledge to ensure continuous progress: “We will not relent in our efforts to provide the best care possible for our smallest and most vulnerable patients.”