In Sheema District, western Uganda, the birth of sextuplets has brought both celebration and concern to the heart of Nyamufumura village. Glorious Betonde, 40, delivered six premature babies—five boys and one girl—via cesarean section at seven months, capturing national attention and spotlighting the mounting challenges Ugandan families face.
The rare multiple birth occurred at Neo Care Fertility Centre in Mbarara City. Due to their fragile condition, the infants were immediately transferred to Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital for specialised care.
The babies remain in the intensive care unit, where doctors are closely monitoring their development using breathing support and feeding tubes.
“It was not an easy journey,” Glorious shared, recalling months of pain and fear. “At three months, the pregnancy nearly ended. By seven months, I could barely move. The doctor said the uterus was overstretched and needed urgent delivery.”
Her husband, Vincent Tumwesigye, a 30-year-old teacher, expressed both awe and anxiety.
“I’d only heard of sextuplets in foreign countries. I didn’t think I’d be the first in Uganda. Raising six at once is hard—we welcome any support.”
While the birth is medically remarkable, it lays bare Uganda’s deep socioeconomic strains. The country has one of the highest fertility rates globally, and public healthcare resources are stretched thin.
According to the 2024 census, over 41% of Uganda’s population is under 15. Studies, including one in Lira City East Division, link large household sizes to food insecurity and reduced access to essential services.
Dr. Mike Kyewalyanga, the paediatrician overseeing the newborns, highlighted the risks.
“These babies are vulnerable. The mother is exhausted. There are real concerns—feeding, respiratory health, and long-term survival.”
He emphasized the need for ongoing support for the parents.
“We are following Ministry of Health protocols, but this family will need sustained help beyond hospital care.”
Ugandans have reacted with a mix of admiration and concern. While the community is rallying around Glorious and Vincent, their story has reignited discussion about maternal healthcare, poverty, and the responsibility of both society and government in supporting large families.
As the newborns fight to grow stronger in the ICU, their parents are facing the everyday logistics of life with six fragile babies—feeding, shelter, transportation, and income. For now, they cling to hope, prayer, and the kindness of strangers.
Their story is not just about an extraordinary birth—it’s a mirror reflecting Uganda’s urgent healthcare and economic realities.
