KAMPALA—UNFPA's commitment to safe motherhood extends beyond healthcare facilities. On October 22nd, 2024, UNFPA joined the Ministry of Health, the Inter Religious Council of Uganda, and other stakeholders at a pre-Safe Motherhood conference to advocate for increased investment in reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health initiatives.

Organized by Faith for Family Health Initiative (3FHi) with support from UNFPA and other partners, the meeting emphasized the importance of enhancing health promotion at the community level through collaboration to improve maternal and child health outcomes in Uganda. 

Ms. Julianna Lunguzi, UNFPA Programme Coordinator (Integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights), called for strengthened partnerships, including with religious leaders, to ensure safe motherhood for all.

“At UNFPA we are committed to ensuring that no woman dies giving life. Let us strengthen partnerships with all stakeholders including religious leaders and institutions to make this a reality,” she said. 

Archbishop Dr. Stephen Samuel Kazimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda underscored the Church's commitment to promoting family health and advocating for the well-being of women, children and adolescents.

“We are committed to advocating for the well-being of women, children and adolescents to ensure a better future for our families, communities and the nation,” the Archbishop said, calling for accelerated actions in combating preventable maternal deaths caused by obstetric complications, teenage pregnancies and rising HIV infections among young people.

“As the Church, we cannot stand by as mothers and children die from preventable causes,” he said. 

Religious institutions play a significant role in advancing the ICPD agenda, particularly in promoting reproductive health rights and gender equality where faith plays a significant role in shaping values and behaviours to promote maternal health. 

-Written by Evelyn Matsamura Kiapi