Kampala, Uganda — November 16, 2025
The Uganda Neonatal Nurses Association (UNNA), in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital, held the 2025 World Prematurity Day Run on Sunday, November 16, 2025.
The event brought together hundreds of participants — nurses, midwives, parents, health professionals, students, and community supporters — all running with one shared goal: to give preterm babies a strong start for a bright future.
Running for a Cause
The run started at 7:00 AM from Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital, with participants dressed in vibrant purple running kits — the official color of prematurity awareness.
This year’s theme focused on supporting preterm babies born from Entebbe, Soroti, Kabale Regional Referral Hospitals (RRHs), and Mparo Health Centre IV to gain access to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) equipment at birth. CPAP is a simple but life-saving device that helps premature babies breathe more easily during their first critical hours of life.
Speaking at the flag-off, representatives from UNNA emphasized that early access to CPAP can dramatically reduce newborn deaths and improve survival rates for premature infants in Uganda.
Strong Voices, United Hearts
In her remarks, Mrs. Atucungwire Judith, UNNA Chairperson and Event Coordinator thanked all participants and sponsors for standing with preterm babies:
“Every step we take today represents a life that can be saved tomorrow. Together, we can transform neonatal care through passion and innovation.”
The event also featured short health talks on prematurity prevention, parent support, and neonatal care, highlighting the vital role of nurses and midwives in newborn health.
Community Support and Awareness
Proceeds from the run will go towards purchasing CPAP machines for targeted facilities and supporting continuous professional training for neonatal nurses.
Participants were also encouraged to continue raising awareness in their communities about the importance of timely care, Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC), and early hospital delivery for mothers at risk of preterm birth.
Families who have benefitted from neonatal care shared touching stories of hope and gratitude — proving that with the right care, even the smallest babies can thrive.
Acknowledgment
UNNA extends heartfelt appreciation to:
- The Ministry of Health for technical support,
- The Uganda Pediatric Association,
- Mulago Specialized Women and Neonatal Hospital,
- And all regional partners and individual sponsors who made this event possible.
Special thanks also go to all runners who contributed by purchasing kits and joining the cause. Your steps truly count!
Moving Forward
The 2025 World Prematurity Day Run marked a strong statement of unity and compassion. UNNA remains committed to improving neonatal outcomes through training, advocacy, research, and partnerships — ensuring that every newborn in Uganda gets the best possible start in life.
Together, we continue transforming neonatal care thru’ passion & innovation.
For more information, donations, or partnership opportunities:
📧 Email: info@unna.org.ug
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: 0782720706
