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Wednesday, May 13, 2026
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Uganda faces shortage of 24,000 nurses, midwives as healthcare demands rise

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Uganda faces shortage of 24,000 nurses, midwives as healthcare demands rise
Uganda is facing a severe shortage of approximately 24,000 nurses and midwives, a critical gap that significantly compromises the nation's capacity to deliver adequate healthcare services. According to recent reports, the country requires at least 13,000 additional midwives and around 11,000 more nurses to effectively address the escalating healthcare demands. This deficit poses a substantial threat to public health, potentially leading to longer waiting times, reduced access to essential medical care, and an increased burden on existing healthcare professionals. The shortage is exacerbated by a number of factors, including a growing population, an increasing prevalence of various diseases, and the emigration of skilled healthcare workers seeking better opportunities abroad. The Ugandan government and health organizations have been vocal about the need to bolster the healthcare workforce, emphasizing the vital role nurses and midwives play in maternal and child health, as well as in providing primary healthcare services across the country. Addressing this shortage will require a multi-pronged approach, including increased training and recruitment initiatives, improved working conditions and remuneration for healthcare professionals, and potentially international partnerships to support capacity building. The long-term implications of this deficit are profound, impacting the overall health outcomes and developmental goals of Uganda. Without a substantial increase in the number of qualified nurses and midwives, the healthcare system risks being overwhelmed, further marginalizing vulnerable populations and hindering progress towards universal health coverage. The situation calls for immediate and sustained action to ensure that Uganda can provide its citizens with the quality healthcare they deserve.
Source: NewVision.co.ug
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