On International Women’s Day 2026, leaders in Kayunga District, Uganda, emphasized the importance of long-term economic independence for women, moving beyond short-term relief measures. The event, held at Bbaale Health Centre IV, focused on maternal health awareness while promoting financial empowerment. National Women’s Council Chairperson Hajjat Faridah Kibowa urged women to reduce their dependence on their husbands and embrace economic opportunities.

In Kayunga District, teenage pregnancies have become a significant concern, with nearly one in five deliveries at Bbaale Health Centre IV involving girls under 18. Health officials reported that in the past six months, 107 out of 570 mothers who delivered at the facility were below this age. The issue has been exacerbated by allegations of relatives coercing young girls into sexual relationships, which was highlighted during an International Women’s Day event at the health centre.

During the Women’s Day celebrations in Jinja, Minister for the Presidency, Hon. Babirye Milly Babalanda, emphasized the need for collective action to combat adolescent pregnancy, gender-based violence (GBV), and corruption in the Busoga region. The event, themed "Scaling up Investment to Accelerate Access to Justice for all Women and Girls in Uganda," highlighted the importance of women's empowerment and acknowledged President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni's support for these initiatives.

The State House health monitoring unit has identified several challenges contributing to maternal deaths in Bududa, Uganda, during a two-week visit to local health facilities. The team, led by Dr. Stephen Ataro Ayella, the assistant Director for northern Uganda, reported on the poor health delivery affecting expectant mothers in the region.

Unsafe abortions are leading to fatalities, as highlighted by the case of 16-year-old Sharon Namyalo, who faced an unplanned pregnancy and resorted to dangerous methods to terminate it, nearly losing her life. Experts are advocating for improved reproductive health education to prevent such incidents, particularly among teenagers in Uganda.

Uganda's boat ambulances are crucial for remote island communities on Africa's largest lake, providing emergency evacuations and outreach vaccinations. An example highlighted is the case of Rebecca Nabiryo, who experienced complications during her pregnancy while living on an island, prompting midwife Ruth Gokyalya to seek urgent assistance. These services are vital for addressing healthcare needs in isolated areas.