Health 22 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Bududa Hospital's Maternity Services Under Fire Amidst Patient Deaths
Residents and local leaders in Bududa District are raising serious concerns over the quality of maternity care at Bududa General Hospital, citing negligence and systemic failures that have allegedly led to several maternal deaths. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/residents-decry-bududa-s-poor-maternity-care-system-5604180
Bududa District is grappling with a crisis in its maternal healthcare system, with residents voicing deep dissatisfaction over the services offered at Bududa General Hospital. The facility has become a focal point of concern following a series of alleged negligence-related deaths of pregnant women.
Most recently, the death of 34-year-old Sandra Khabuya, who died at the hospital two weeks ago, has sparked a police investigation. Her sister recounted a harrowing experience where Khabuya, suffering from pregnancy complications, received initial medication but was subsequently neglected as her condition worsened. Despite pleas for help and a deteriorating state, no adequate medical attention was provided, leading to her tragic demise.
Local authorities have confirmed that six hospital staff members are required to provide statements to the police regarding Khabuya’s death. The district security committee is actively involved, aiming to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident and improve service delivery.
Khabuya’s case is not isolated. In May, Jennifer Nasaka, 31, also died at the hospital during childbirth, with her family alleging delayed treatment and demands for payment for essential medicines. Another woman, Christine Nandala, claims she lost her baby two years prior due to alleged negligence. These incidents highlight a pattern of alleged failures within the hospital’s maternity ward.
Hospital administration acknowledges that health workers may be prioritizing paying patients in the private wing over those in general wards. Furthermore, investigations by the State House Health Monitoring Team and local officials have identified broader issues including poor infrastructure, staff shortages, inadequate specialist availability, and a critical shortage of blood supplies. The hospital’s capacity to provide essential services is severely hampered by these persistent challenges.
The Ministry of Health has acknowledged the ongoing investigations into the concerns raised at Bududa General Hospital and stated that they will comment further upon the conclusion of these inquiries. Nationally, maternal deaths remain a significant concern, with obstetric hemorrhage and hypertensive disorders being leading causes.