Since its founding in 2022, the Preterm Infants Parents Network Uganda (PIPNU) has emerged as a transformative force in maternal and neonatal health across the country. Rooted in a parent-led, community-based approach, PIPNU works to reduce the complications of preterm birth through education, psychosocial support, and healthcare system strengthening. Its impact spans both urban and rural communities, with programs that reach families before, during, and after their time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The organization operates within all regional referral hospitals and has become a national voice for family-centered neonatal care in Uganda.

In Uganda, where the experience of having a baby in the NICU is often marked by fear, uncertainty, and isolation, PIPNU has created Walls of Hope in several hospitals. These physical spaces are adorned with affirming messages, photographs, and family testimonials that offer emotional support to parents during a difficult time. Beyond aesthetics, these walls serve as rallying points for peer connection and information sharing, offering a visible sign that parents are not alone. They also act as a gentle advocacy tool within hospitals, reinforcing the importance of compassion and communication in clinical settings.

The experience of preterm birth often triggers intense emotional stress, particularly in environments with limited psychosocial support. PIPNU’s peer support groups create safe spaces where parents can share experiences, access mental health resources, and receive guidance from others who have walked the same path. The organization also facilitates specialized bereavement counseling for families who suffer the loss of a newborn, helping them navigate grief in culturally sensitive ways. Moreover, PIPNU actively promotes male involvement in newborn care, challenging traditional norms and encouraging fathers to become equal partners in caregiving. These inclusive programs build resilience within families and foster stronger outcomes for both parents and infants.

Beyond clinical care, PIPNU addresses the broader social determinants of health through initiatives that combine nutritional support with economic empowerment. One standout example is their low-cost baby oatmeal initiative, a locally run enterprise that provides affordable, nutritious food for preterm infants while generating income for participating families. This program not only improves dietary outcomes for vulnerable babies but also strengthens household resilience by creating livelihood opportunities. Mothers, in particular, are supported to become micro-entrepreneurs, producing and distributing the oatmeal within their communities. The initiative exemplifies how health and economic well-being can be advanced simultaneously through grassroots innovation.

In 2024, PIPNU launched Uganda’s first national preterm birth database – a pioneering effort to collect and analyze data on neonatal outcomes. The database allows healthcare providers and policymakers to track survival rates, identify risk factors, and allocate resources more effectively. As Mr. Kateregga, co-founder and Managing Director at PIPNU, puts it: “Without data, you can’t track progress or improve care.” This tool has already informed strategic decisions at hospital and national levels, underscoring PIPNU’s role not just as a service provider, but as a thought leader in neonatal care.

Driven by the belief that every preterm baby deserves a fighting chance, PIPNU continues to expand its reach across Uganda. The organization is currently working to scale its training programs, enhance healthcare worker capacity, and advocate for national policies that support family-centered neonatal care. Future goals include establishing regional training hubs, deepening partnerships with health ministries, and securing long-term funding for its most impactful initiatives. By staying rooted in community engagement and evidence-based practice, PIPNU is poised to shape the next generation of neonatal health in East Africa.