Executive Director of GHI Visits Uganda

Executive Director of GHI Visits Uganda to Review Progress in Maternal and Neonatal Programs

Executive Director of GHI Visits Uganda to Review Progress in Maternal and Neonatal Programs

Lois Quam, the Executive Director of the Global Health Initiative (GHI), visited Uganda February 21-25, 2012, to review the progress of maternal and neonatal programs in two districts in Western Uganda.  President Obama created the GHI to help countries save lives today, and to strengthen health systems to save more lives and build stronger nations tomorrow.  The U.S. Government, under GHI, is supporting the Government of Uganda's efforts to significantly strengthen its maternal and neonatal health services.

Ms. Quam visited several health facilities in Kyenjojo and Kabarole districts and observed service delivery programs at all levels of the health sector.  Ms. Quam met with District Administration and Health Management officials, as well as Village Health Teams and community members.  During these visits, Ms. Quam heard from Ugandans about the challenges surrounding maternal and neonatal health, as well as Ugandans' plans and hopes for the future.

The trip culminated in a public ceremony to commemorate the signing of a Letter of Intent between the Government of Uganda and the U.S. Government.  The letter affirms the two governments' mutual commitment to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality in Uganda.  Presiding officials included the U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, the Speaker of Uganda's Parliament and the Ugandan Minister of Health.  Ms. Quam reminded all present that, “When a woman bleeds to death in childbirth, her nation bleeds, too,” and emphasized the importance of the Government of Uganda's commitment to the maternal and neonatal health programs.

The U.S. Government and Government of Uganda look forward to a fruitful partnership that will dramatically reduce maternal mortality in Uganda.  Lois Quam's visit and the Letter of Intent are important first steps toward great strides in maternal health to ensure that, one day, no mother will die giving life.