Kampala, (UG):- The Minister of State for Health in charge of General Duties, Hon Anifa Kawooya Bangirana has challenged the newly inaugurated governing board of the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC) on the crucial role of the UNMC board in upholding the standards of nursing and midwifery across Uganda.
“As the healthcare sector evolves, it is very important that our nurses and midwives maintain the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct,” Hon Anifa Kawooya stated while presiding over the inauguration ceremony of the new Nurses and Midwives board on Friday, September 07, at Kolping Hotel in Kampala.
The minister also urged the board to address public concerns about healthcare quality and staff reliability, highlighting the need for compassion and diligence in patient care.
The UNMC Governing Council is comprised of 17 members, and it provides strategic oversight to the institution.
Dr. Ekong Elizabeth Namukombe was sworn in as the newly reappointed chairperson, and Ms. Nimwesiga Christine, the council’s secretary.
Other members of the board include Mbabazi Winifred Kyalituha, Ms Nanyonga Florence, Hajjat Safina Kisu Musene, Ms Mary Gorret Musoke Kigongo, Dr. Kisuule Ivan, Mr. Kalanzi Mark, Mr. Nyamutale Peter, Mrs. Birike Jennifer, Hajjat Halimah Mayanja Nanziri, Ms. Chandia Agnes Bako, Mr. Kamugisha Robert, Mrs. Christine Alura, Ms. Nampiima Kakonge Eva, Mrs Kaala Agatha, and Prof. Tom Ngabirano. The oaths were administered by His Worship John Paul Eduke.
Hon. Hanifa Kawooya called upon the new governing council members to uphold the core values of the UNMC, including transparency, accountability, and commitment to public welfare.
She concluded by saying that the government is willing to support the health sector and called on the board to work together to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare system, ensuring that Uganda’s nursing and midwifery professions continue to deliver high-quality care.
Dr. Ekong in her remarks as the new Board Chairperson thanked the government and stakeholders for their support. She commended the outgoing members for their contributions and stressed the importance of continuing professional development for nurses and midwives.
Dr Namukombe underscored that the new board would need to adapt to emerging health crises, such as pandemics, and review regulations to maintain competence and safety in healthcare services. She emphasized the necessity of collaboration with other regulatory bodies and partners to tackle issues like staffing shortages and working conditions.
Ms Nimwesiga Christine, the Registrar of the UNMC, also gave a reflection on the council’s journey and recounted the achievements of the outgoing council, such as the development of the first Scope of Practice for nurses and midwives and the strategic plan for 2024-2028.
Nimwesiga noted that, as of August 2024, the council had registered nearly 120,000 nurses and midwives and licensed over 90,000 private health units. She also highlighted improvements in digital operations, including a 76% compliance rate in online registration, which marks a big advancement in the council’s efficiency and accessibility.
However, she also acknowledged ongoing challenges, such as inadequate office space and intermittent internet connectivity, which the new board will need to address.
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