Uganda’s National Medical Stores (NMS) has reaffirmed that Mama Kits – essential delivery packs for expectant mothers – are free, warning that any health worker charging mothers is breaking the law.
“Mama Kits are provided by the government at no cost. They are not for sale,” said NMS spokesperson Sheila Nduhukire in a statement to Eagle Online. “Once delivered to hospitals and health centres, no patient should be asked to pay for them.”
The assurance follows reports that some mothers are being told to buy items such as gloves or soap. In Mukono, one mother said she was forced to purchase gloves even though the kits had been delivered.
The kits contain gloves, cotton wool, soap, gauze, umbilical tape, a razor blade and a plastic sheet. They are part of Uganda’s efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths. According to the Uganda Demographic Health Survey, facility deliveries have increased to 74% while maternal mortality has dropped to 189 per 100,000 live births, down from 438 in 2011.
NMS, however, acknowledges challenges at facility level where some items are hoarded or diverted for resale. “Our role is to deliver. Oversight at the last mile requires local leaders and health managers to step up,” Nduhukire said.
Analysts warn that illegal charges risk undermining the government’s progress in maternal health. Campaigners have urged RDCs, DHOs and local councils to closely monitor distribution, while also calling for toll-free hotlines and visible patient rights notices in maternity wards.
NMS has called on the public to be vigilant and to report any extortion cases immediately. “The kits belong to mothers, and no one should stand in the way of safe delivery,” Nduhukire emphasised.
With the government prioritising maternal and child health under Vision 2040, the Mama Kit programme remains a cornerstone. NMS says protecting it is not only a matter of accountability but also of saving lives.
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