The Coalition to Stop Maternal Mortality Due to Unsafe Abortion, an umbrella body for NGOs working in the reproductive health sector, has called on the government to urgently reform the Penal Code Act to decriminalize abortion, aligning with public health and human rights obligations.
At a media conference in Kampala, activists pressed Parliament to review and amend sections 130, 131, and 132 of the Penal Code, which criminalize abortion, to ensure compliance with constitutional and human rights standards.
According to the 2024 Annual Police Report, 12,317 cases of defilement were recorded, with 12,009 victims being girls aged 1 to 17. Perpetrators often include guardians, parents, and teachers, contributing to unwanted pregnancies through sexual assault, defilement, rape, and incest.
Faith Nantongo, an advocate, emphasized the need for action.
“The ministry of Health should enforce and roll out training, supervision, and monitoring mechanisms for effective implementation of post-abortion care life-saving services,” she said.
“Law enforcement agencies and the judiciary to desist from intimidating or prosecuting health workers providing essential post-abortion care services within the limits of the law.”
The coalition, comprising civil society organizations, members of parliament, and parents, also called on the government and partners to implement research recommendations on adolescent sexual and reproductive health.
Uganda continues to face significant public health challenges, with thousands of women and girls, particularly the poor, suffering complications from unsafe abortions.
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