By Sabir Musa

Five health centers within Ayivu East Constituency received a total of 10 delivery beds in a move to prevent infection of mothers and newly born babies during child birth in maternity wards

Lobbied from the Ministry of Heath by area Member of Parliament Geoffrey Feta, each of the 5 health centers received 2 delivery beds, but these were handed over without mattresses as stakeholders are encouraged to support the initiative. “I am going to look for the mattresses and put on them. Today I have brought the beds, tomorrow I will bring the mattresses” he said, while addressing residents during the city’s women’s day celebration held at St. Josephs College Ombaci.
Despite government’s effort to prevent risks of mothers’ and babies infection in maternity wards, many mothers shun health facilities, opting for traditional birth attendants. Stakeholders attribute this to long distance and inadequate bed capacity in some facilities making mothers fear the infection risks especially while giving birth on the floor.

Records at Aroi Health Centre 3 maternity wards alone indicates that, about 15 mothers give birth weekly and 60 on monthly basis. The facility had 8 delivery beds, now 10 after receiving 2 more new ones. This increase in numbers of beds according to the Health Centre Incharge, Nesta Adrabo will “help mothers so much in delivery”.

However, following cases of equipment and drug theft from Adumi Health Centre 3, Arua Resident City Commissioner, Alice Akello challenged leaders to monitor health facilities for safety of these equipment. “Don’t wait to report to police because you are leaders; monitor these beds and make sure they are put into proper use” she cautioned.
Health officials and security team in Arua City continue to warn public against theft of medical equipment and drugs following cases reported from some facilities, and calls for proper care of donated items.

COVER PHOTO: Arua Resident City Commissioner, Alice Akello handing over the beds By Sabir Musa