Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo (3rd R) launched the two initiatives at Kawempe in Kampala, while Dr Jane Ruth Aceng (2nd L), Uganda’s Minister of Health, among other officials cheered him on
HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Thousands of Ugandan children are set to be saved through a landmark maternal and child health initiative launched by the President of Rotary International, Francesco Arezzo, marking a major boost to Uganda’s healthcare system and the fight against preventable maternal and neonatal deaths.
The dual launch, held at Kawempe National Referral Hospital, introduced the innovative Oxygen as a Service model under the Oxygen for Life project, alongside the $500,000 Mama Toto Care Global Grant. Together, the two initiatives aim to strengthen health systems, expand access to quality care and significantly improve survival rates for mothers and newborns, particularly in underserved communities.
The Oxygen as a Service model offers a sustainable, service-based approach to medical oxygen delivery. Unlike traditional one-off equipment donations that often fall into disrepair, the model ensures continuous oxygen supply, routine maintenance and long-term functionality of systems. At facilities such as Kawempe Hospital’s Neonatal Unit, reliable oxygen is critical in managing respiratory distress, one of the leading causes of newborn mortality.
By guaranteeing consistent oxygen availability, the model is expected to reduce dependency on erratic supply chains while providing a scalable solution that can be replicated nationwide.
The T shirt to work as an official emblem in the campaign was also unveiled
Complementing this is the Mama Toto Care Global Grant, which will expand maternal and child health services across several districts. The funding will support improved access to quality care, strengthen healthcare systems, and equip facilities with essential tools and training for safe deliveries and newborn care.
The Minister of Health, Jane Ruth Aceng, commended Rotary for aligning its interventions with Uganda’s national health priorities.
“This collaboration demonstrates what is possible when global networks align with national priorities. Investments in oxygen systems and maternal care are critical to saving lives and strengthening our healthcare system,” Aceng said.
Speaking at the launch, Arezzo emphasized Rotary’s commitment to sustainable, high-impact solutions. “This is Rotary in action — not only responding to immediate needs, but building systems that will continue to save lives for years to come. The true measure of our work is not what we launch today, but the lives that will be saved tomorrow,” he said.
A nurse at Kawempe Referral Hospital demonstrates how the new mechanism will work
Rotary leaders from District 9213 and District 9214 noted that integrating oxygen delivery with maternal and child healthcare reflects a strategic approach, combining immediate clinical support with long-term health system strengthening.
Healthcare workers at Kawempe Hospital welcomed the initiative, saying improved oxygen access and expanded maternal care will ease pressure on frontline services and enhance patient outcomes.
As the first official activity of President Arezzo’s visit to Uganda, the launch sets a strong tone of partnership, sustainability and measurable impact. Through coordinated action and global collaboration, Rotary continues to demonstrate how targeted investments can save lives, strengthen health systems and build healthier communities across Uganda.
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