For Moreen, childbirth had always been accompanied by fear.
The 23-year-old mother from Kasese District still remembers the infection she developed after the birth of her previous child. Recovery was slow and painful, and as her next pregnancy progressed, the memory stayed with her.
“I was fearful throughout my next pregnancy,” Moreen (pictured first left) said.
During that pregnancy, Moreen attended a maternal health education session delivered by Hope for Sustainable Development alongside dozens of other expectant mothers, where she received a Clean Birth Kit containing sterile supplies designed to help reduce the risk of infection during childbirth.
She took the kit home and waited.
Then one night labour began.
Heavy rain had turned the roads to mud and transport was unavailable. Reaching a health facility in time was impossible.
Instead, a trained village birth attendant came to assist.
Using the Clean Birth Kit, she washed her hands with soap, put on sterile gloves, prepared a clean delivery surface and safely cared for both mother and baby during the birth.
“For the first time during childbirth, I felt safe and protected,” Moreen said.
Her daughter was born healthy, and unlike her previous delivery, she recovered without infection and her baby’s umbilical cord healed well.
“My husband was amazed by the difference and said the kit helped save both my life and our baby’s life.”
For Moreen, the kit represented far more than a collection of medical supplies.
It brought reassurance during uncertainty, confidence during labour and a safer start for her daughter.
Beneficiaries being trained on how to use the birthing kits
Pregnant mothers receiving their birthing kits
Regina of Nyabirongo Village receiving her birthing kit in January 2026.