By Tolit Ivan
The Acholi Sub region has registered a decline in maternal deaths, according to a report released during the 6th Gulu Regional Referral Health Assembly.
According to the data presented, maternal deaths declined from 68 cases in the 2024/2025 financial year to 56 cases in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Of the 56 maternal deaths recorded in the 2025/2026 financial year, St. Mary’s Hospital Lacor in Gulu City recorded the highest number, with 24 cases followed by Anaka General Hospital in Nwoya District with five cases, Kitgum General Hospital with four cases.
Dr. Ambrosoli Memorial Hospital Kalongo and St. Joseph Kitgum Hospital with two cases each, while Gulu Military Hospital recorded one case.
Meanwhile, Ayiko International Hospital in Amuru District, Gulu Independent Hospital, and Yot Kom Hospital in Kitgum District did not register any maternal deaths during the period.
Health experts have attributed maternal deaths to several factors, including pre-eclampsia, postpartum haemorrhage, septic shock, abortion-related complications, and cardiac failure.
Other contributing factors include delays in seeking medical attention by expectant mothers, inadequate transport between health facilities, and shortages of blood for transfusion, among others.