In a significant stride toward improving sexual and reproductive healthcare in Uganda, Lamwo District Local Government, the United Nations Population Fund(UNFPA), the Embassy of Japan in Uganda and other partners officially inaugurated the Palabek Kal Health Centre IV in Lamwo District on October 5. 

With the support of the Embassy of Japan in Uganda, this significant initiative involved an investment of over $100,000 to equip the facility’s operating theater set to provide Comprehensive Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (CEmONC) services to approximately 140,000 residents of Palabek County and nearby refugee communities. The commissioning of the state-of-the-art facility marks a turning point in healthcare delivery for the communities, particularly in maternal and newborn care.  

The District Chief Administrative Officer (CAO said initially, the absence of a functioning theatre and reliable power supply has significantly hindered the access to emergency services for mothers and newborns.

"However, we are grateful for the critical support from UNFPA and our partners, who have provided essential equipment like a standby generator and an ambulance. These contributions are vital in enhancing our service delivery and ensuring that our community receives the healthcare it deserves."

A vital upgrade for community health 

Located in Palabek Town Council, the Palabek Kal Health Centre IV recently transitioned from a Health Centre III to a Health Centre IV in July this year. However, the facility had remained non-functional to provide CEmONC services due to an inoperable operating theatre and inadequate power supply. With the nearest functional CEmONC facility, Padibe HCIV, located two hours away, enhancing local healthcare capabilities for emergency maternal health services has become urgent.

The commissioning of the upgraded Palabek Kal Health Centre IV highlights UNFPA’s commitment to enhancing access to essential maternal and neonatal care, particularly for vulnerable populations, including refugees. This upgrade introduces a third functional CEmONC site in the district, promoting universal health coverage and improving the overall health landscape.

"With the refugee population in Palabek settlement now exceeding 84,000 people, we must provide life-saving care, including emergency obstetric services, maternal health, and treatment for critical illnesses. This facility will be key in addressing the healthcare needs of both refugees and the host community," said Chief guest, Minister for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees Hon. Hilary Onek.

"This facility is not just a building; it is a beacon of hope for our community. It embodies our collective commitment to health, safety, and a brighter future for our mothers and children."

Strengthening Health Infrastructure

In collaboration with Japan through the Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB) funding, UNFPA has engaged in various initiatives aimed at improving sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) and combating gender-based violence (GBV) in the region. This partnership is vital for strengthening the health system and significantly reducing maternal and newborn mortality rates. Through the Strengthening Adolescents and Youth Rights and Empowerment (SAY Programme, supported by the Government of Denmark, UNFPA and its partners are enhancing SRHR and GBV services, not only at Palabek Kal Health Centre IV, but throughout the district.

These initiatives uniquely emphasize the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health, the provision of humanitarian reproductive health kits, and the deployment of essential personnel, including an anesthetic officer, to the facility. Additionally, efforts to facilitate the operation of an ambulance for timely referrals are crucial in ensuring comprehensive healthcare access. 

Palabek Kal Health Centre IV has recently undergone significant infrastructure upgrades, made possible by the Office of the Prime Minister’s Development Response to Displacement Impact Project (DRDIP). These enhancements include the construction of a new laboratory, as well as pediatric and general wards, greatly improving the facility's capabilities. 

"We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the governments of Japan and Denmark for their generous support, which is vital in empowering youth and strengthening health services in the community. Given the growing demand for healthcare services, the centre should ideally be upgraded to a general hospital to better serve the region," the Minister said.

Mr. Yoshimura Tomotaka, Deputy Ambassador of Japan to Uganda, emphasized Japan's dedication to supporting vulnerable populations affected by conflict and displacement:

"We recognize the critical need for maternal and reproductive healthcare in Lamwo District, especially for refugees and host communities. Equipping the theatre at Palabek Kal HC-IV aligns directly with our focus on human security and universal health coverage. By providing essential infrastructure, we aim to save mothers' lives and ensure safe deliveries, ultimately reducing maternal and infant mortality,"Mr. Yoshimura Tomotaka said.

A Hopeful Future

Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr Richard Mugahi said the newly -upgraded theater will be a game changer, drastically reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates by providing mothers with timely access to skilled surgical interventions right in their communities.

"Ensuring reliable, high-quality maternal and neonatal services in rural and underserved areas is not just a necessity; it is a matter of life and death. No mother should have to endure long journeys for critical care when it can be available at their doorstep," Dr Mugahi said. 

"We are deeply grateful to our development partners, especially UNFPA and the government of Japan, for their generous contributions to Lamwo District," the minister said. "The provision of an ambulance service has greatly improved access to emergency healthcare for our communities. I urge our partners to continue supporting Palabek Kal Health Centre IV to ensure it remains fully operational and sustainable." 

The collaboration between UNFPA, the Government of Uganda, and Japan signals a promising future for healthcare in Lamwo District. The operationalization of the Palabek Kal Health Centre IV will positively impact countless lives, ensuring that mothers and newborns receive the critical care they need during emergencies. Together, building a healthier, more resilient community for all.

UNFPA's commitment

Representing UNFPA, Programme Coordinator, Integrated SRHR Juliana Mdamvetsa Lunguzi said UNFPA remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing maternal and child health services in Northern Uganda, particularly in refugee-hosting districts like Lamwo.

"Our support under the Japan Supplementary Budget (JSB), the DELSiE project, and various humanitarian programmes has been instrumental in driving significant improvements in healthcare delivery. These efforts align with UNFPA's transformative results, aiming to ensure that every woman and child has access to quality care, ultimately contributing to the achievement of universal health coverage and the Sustainable Development Goals," she said.

Written by Emmanet Nabwire and Cinderella Anena