Kampala, Uganda – July 31, 2025
Uganda celebrates second IVF baby born at public hospital
A second baby born via in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been delivered at Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital in Kampala, marking a significant advancement in the nation’s fertility care.
- Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital has delivered its second baby conceived through IVF.
- The hospital began offering IVF services in August 2024 and has since confirmed 11 pregnancies.
- This development is considered a game-changer for fertility treatments in Uganda, previously dominated by expensive private clinics.
- Infertility affects an estimated 25% of couples in Uganda, often leading to societal stigma for women.
The successful delivery of a 3.6-kilogram baby girl at the government facility represents a milestone. The announcement was made by Dr. Diana Atwine, the health ministry’s permanent secretary, via social media on Thursday, July 31, 2025.
“Great news!” Atwine posted on X (formerly Twitter). “Our team at Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital has successfully delivered its second baby conceived through In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF).”
The hospital, which initiated its IVF services in August 2024, has reported 11 confirmed pregnancies to date. “A milestone worth celebrating as we continue expanding access to advanced specialised services in the country,” Atwine added.
The hospital shared its excitement online, stating, “We’re thrilled to announce the safe delivery of our second IVF baby at Mulago Specialised Women & Neonatal Hospital! A milestone in affordable, public fertility care, bringing renewed hope to families facing fertility challenges.”
Expanding Access to Fertility Care
This achievement is particularly significant as Mulago is Uganda’s sole public hospital offering IVF. Historically, such treatments were primarily accessible through costly private fertility clinics, with a single cycle often costing between 15 million and 40 million Ugandan shillings, placing it out of reach for many.
In vitro fertilization involves combining eggs and sperm in a laboratory. It is a common treatment for infertility, a condition where conception has not occurred after at least one year of trying. The process typically includes stimulating the ovaries, retrieving eggs, fertilizing them with sperm, and transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus.
The hospital’s success since launching its service nearly a year ago, with 11 ongoing IVF pregnancies, highlights both the demand for these services and the growing trust in public healthcare facilities.
Did you know? Infertility is a significant challenge in Uganda, affecting an estimated 25% of couples. Women often bear the brunt of societal blame and stigma related to conception difficulties.
Infertility remains a sensitive and often stigmatized issue throughout Uganda. The demand for services like IVF underscores the pressing need for more accessible fertility treatments in the country.
