Evelyn Lirri
2 November 2009
Mayuge — Legislators have called on the government for swift action to reduce the number of women who die during pregnancy and childbirth. At least 435 of every 100,000 women die in child birth or pregnancy related complications.
'Have few children'
Speaking at celebrations to mark safe motherhood day in Mayuge District on Saturday, the legislators also urged women to have a number of children they can ably take care of. "My message for the women is that they should have few children so that they can see them through school. Pregnant women should also make it a point to deliver their children in hospital," Ms Margaret Angufiru, the Ayivu County member of Parliament said.
The day was marked under the theme, "Healthy timing and spacing of pregnancies." Deputy Speaker Rebecca Kadaga, in a speech read for her by the Health Minister, Dr Stephen Mallinga, said while the government has made strides towards reducing maternal mortality, a lot is still required.
"Statistics indicate that although maternal mortality is reducing, it still remains high at 435 deaths per 100,000 live births," Ms Kadaga said. Statistics indicate that Uganda is unlikely to meet its goal of cutting by 75 per cent by 2015 the number of women who die during child birth.
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