Source: The Independent
Policy makers at the Women deliver summit in Munyonyo urged African governments to come up strong laws and policies to ensure that countries meet the millennium development goal 5 (maternal mortality) which is among the 8 MDGS that were arrived at in 2000 in New York.

While addressing the conference, Janet Jackson the UNFPA representative said the challenges that continue to lead to an increase in a number of maternal deaths are real and known and the opportunities to change the status quo are many. She said once identified, achieving MDG 5 will not be impossible as it seems to be.

Mathias Kasumba a Ugandan Legislator said commitment by government leaders is the biggest problem because many of them do not see it as a priority yet all pregnant women need the best quality care for them to deliver safely.

He said for this to be achieved, many players have to play their roles. He says National Medical Stores should take it upon itself to ensure that all health centres including those at the village levels are fully equipped with drugs as well as equipping the health facilities with family planning methods for women who want to delay their pregnancy.

Kasumba also said it is there is need to upscale the community based health centres so that women are not tempted to seek the services of traditional birth attendants who may not be experienced enough to handle complicated pregnancies.

Chris Baryomunsi the Kinkinzi East MP says called for renewed commitment from the responsible governments. He said to show how important the matter is, maternal mortality will be one of the main topics that will be tackled during the Inter Parliamentary Union Conference which is due on March 31 in Kampala

Baryomunsi also said Uganda is yet to come up with a bill that will help reduce maternal mortality.

• Uganda