Uganda is facing a critical need to address unsafe abortion complications and maternal mortality, with experts and advocates urging the government to implement clear guidelines and regulations. The calls for action come as the country’s maternal mortality rate remains high, with a significant percentage of deaths attributed to unsafe abortion.
Nimrod Muhumuza, head of research at Afya na Haki, emphasized the need for common sense legislation that recognizes circumstances where abortion is necessary to save the mother’s life or prevent severe complications. “We are not asking for a scenario where people will go to the hospital and demand abortion, but rather for clear guidelines that address circumstances where abortion is necessary to save lives,” Muhumuza said.
The 2022 Demographic and Health Survey estimates that Uganda’s maternal mortality rate stands at 189 deaths per 100,000 live births, with unsafe abortion being a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Experts and advocates are urging the government to decriminalize abortion and implement clear regulations to protect the lives and health of women.
Anand Grover, Senior Lawyer and former UN Special Rapporteur on the Right to Health, noted that criminalizing abortion has severe negative effects on women and society. “We must push for decriminalization, as it’s a remnant of coloniality that continues to oppress women,” Grover said.
Anand Grover
Isabella Mwangi, Legal Practitioner from Kenya, added that decriminalizing abortion is essential for advancing women’s rights and health. “We must push for reforms that remove these oppressive barriers,” Mwangi said.
Isabella Mwangi.
Dr. Herbert Lukwata, President of the Uganda Medical Association, urged for a clear abortion law to protect Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). “Right now, health professionals face legal risks when trying to save young women’s lives,” Lukwata said.
Dr. Herbert Luswata.
Currently, Uganda’s Constitution and Penal Code Act criminalize abortion, imposing penalties on health workers and pregnant women. Experts and advocates are calling for reforms to address this critical issue and protect the lives and health of women in Uganda.”