CONSTRUCTION OF MATERNITY WARD LAUNCHED AT OJOM HEALTH CENTER II

Soroti District Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Paul Eseru has officially launched the construction of a general maternity ward at Ojom Health Center II, located in Oculoi Sub-County.

The project, valued at UGX 153 million, has been awarded to JAPEMO Construction Company. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on Tuesday, 27th February 2025.

During the launch, RDC Eseru expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government for allocating funds to enhance healthcare services, particularly in maternal health.

 “This project will go a long way in improving healthcare for our people, and we thank the government for this vital support,” Eseru said.

Soroti District Chairperson, Mr. Edoru Simon Peter Ekuu, emphasized the importance of the new maternity ward, stating that it would greatly improve healthcare access for the local community.

“This project is a significant step towards ensuring better health services for our people. We are optimistic that it will reduce the pressure on existing facilities,” said Edoru.

District Health Officer (DHO), Dr. Charles Okadhi, highlighted the government's efforts to upgrade all Health Center IIs to Health Center IIIs.

He noted that the construction of the maternity ward at Ojom Health Center II was particularly strategic, as the facility serves residents in Oculoi, Katine, and Arapai sub-counties.

“The addition of the general maternity block is a transformative step. It’s not just about infrastructure; it’s about ensuring that our people have access to timely and quality healthcare services,” said Dr. Okadhi.

Stell Aoda, the district councilor representing Oculoi Sub-County, expressed the community's excitement and gratitude for the long-awaited development.

"We are very grateful for this project. It will provide much-needed healthcare to women in our community and beyond," said Aoda.

Community members also shared their appreciation for the upcoming improvements. Sarah Ibiara, a resident of Oculoi, said, “We have waited a long time for improvements at this health center. Now, we are hopeful that we will no longer have to travel long distances for basic medical services.”

The construction of the maternity ward is expected to significantly improve maternal healthcare services in the sub county, reduce the strain on nearby health facilities, and ensure better access to care for the growing population.

Ends

By Abraham Ekwaru, Communication Officer Soroti