By Onen Herbert | Community Health Programs Coordinator
Frequent power outages remain a major challenge for health facilities in Northern Uganda, often interrupting critical medical services. However, the installation of solar power at our maternity unit has significantly improved service delivery. Despite ongoing load shedding in the region, maternity services at our clinic have continued without interruption because solar energy now provides consistent lighting and hot water needed for safe deliveries. This reliable power has helped staff work more confidently and safely, even during night emergencies.
A midwife at our Agonga facility shared how the change has strengthened community trust in the clinic. Previously, some mothers feared delivering at the facility due to the risk of darkness during labor. Since the solar system was installed, that concern has disappeared. The maternity ward remains well lit, and staff can respond quickly to emergencies. As a result, the number of facility deliveries has increased from about 12 to 20 per month, showing that more mothers now feel safe seeking skilled care.
Reliable electricity has also improved other aspects of maternal and newborn care. Staff are now able to maintain proper hygiene with access to safe hot water for infection prevention and for soothing mothers during labor and recovery, while essential equipment remains functional when needed. These improvements directly support healthier outcomes for mothers and newborns while strengthening confidence in local health services.
While the maternity unit now benefits from solar power, other departments such as the outpatient department (OPD) still experience disruptions during power cuts. Expanding solar power to these areas will help ensure that all patients receive consistent care regardless of electricity outages, allowing the clinic to continue serving the growing number of families who depend on it.
By herbert onen | programs manager
By Mugisha Leonard | Project Leader
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