Rotary District 9213 has launched the Mama Toto Care Uganda project worth $500,000 (about Shs1.8 billion) to improve maternal and child health services and reduce deaths among mothers and babies across the country.
The project was launched at Kawempe National Referral Hospital by Francesco Arezzo, the President of Rotary International. It also introduced the Oxygen as a Service model under the Oxygen for Life project.
The Oxygen as a Service model provides a steady supply of medical oxygen, regular maintenance of equipment, and long-term functionality.
Unlike one-time donations, this system ensures hospitals always have working oxygen. At Kawempe’s neonatal unit, oxygen is essential for treating babies with breathing problems, which are among the leading causes of newborn deaths.
The model will reduce reliance on irregular supply chains and can be expanded to other health facilities across the country. The Mama Toto Care Global Grant, also valued at $500,000, will support maternal and child health services in several districts.
The funds will: improve access to quality care, strengthen health systems, provide equipment and training for safe deliveries and newborn care.
The programme targets underserved communities and aims to improve survival rates for mothers and infants.
Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng from the Ministry of Health attended the launch and praised Rotary for supporting national health priorities. She said investment in oxygen systems and maternal care is critical to saving lives and strengthening the healthcare system.
Arezzo said Rotary is focused on building sustainable systems that will continue saving lives for many years, not just short-term support.
Leaders from Rotary District 9213 and Rotary District 9214 said combining oxygen services with maternal healthcare is a strategic move that provides immediate help while strengthening the health system for the future.
Health workers at Kawempe Hospital welcomed the project, saying reliable oxygen and improved maternal services will reduce pressure on staff and improve patient outcomes.
The launch, the first activity of Arezzo’s visit to Uganda, highlights stronger partnerships, sustainability and measurable impact in the health sector.
Mama Toto Care board inaugurated
Arezzo also inaugurated the Mama Toto Care Board, which includes:
John Magezi-Ndarnira
Francis Xavier Sentamu
Dr. Richard Mugahi
Dr. Flavia Mpanga Kaggwa of UNICEF Uganda
Diana Ondoga of Stanbic Bank Uganda
Olive Birungi Lumonya of the Civil Aviation Authority
Nakato Margaret Nsibirwa
Dr. Sabrina Kitaka of Makerere University College of Health Sciences
Daniel Lubogo of AB & David Advocates
Rotary says the programme will save lives, improve hospital services and build a stronger healthcare system for mothers and babies in Uganda.
