Uganda faces significant challenges in maternal and newborn health despite policy progress. With a maternal mortality ratio of approximately 284.1 deaths per 100,000 live births and a neonatal mortality rate of approximately 18.4 deaths per 1,000 live births, the country struggles with poor birth outcomes despite some improvement. 74% of births are attended by skilled health personnel, though quality varies significantly. Uganda's rapid population growth (3.3% annually) creates enormous pressure on maternal services, with the average woman having approximately 5.4 children. The country faces critical healthcare workforce shortages, with a high proportion of approved positions unfilled, particularly in rural areas. Uganda has implemented innovative approaches to overcome these challenges, including voucher programs to increase facility deliveries among poor women and motorcycle ambulances to improve emergency transport in rural areas. The country continues to address high rates of adolescent pregnancy (approximately 132 births per 1,000 adolescents aged 15-19), one of the world's highest rates. Uganda's maternal health is influenced by its HIV epidemic, with approximately 5.7% of pregnant women living with HIV, though mother-to-child transmission has been significantly reduced through effective prevention programs. Recent initiatives focus on improving respectful maternity care to address reports of disrespect and abuse in facilities, which deter some women from institutional delivery. The country's refugee-hosting role, with approximately 1.4 million refugees primarily from South Sudan and DRC, creates additional maternal care needs.