Dr Jane Ruth Aceng said access to healthcare has improved, with 86 per cent of the population within 5km of reach of public or private health facilities.

During four years, Dr Aceng said the government has boosted health infrastructure by upgrading of health centres, rehabilitation and construction of hospitals to bring services closer to the people and to provide specialised services.

During the sector plan of 2015/2020, the ministry had planned to increase deliveries in health facilities from 44 per cent to 64 per cent and increasing health centre IVs offering comprehensive emergency obstetric care services from 37 per cent to 50 per cent.

Dr Aceng said as a result, 62 per cent of mothers deliver from health facilities.

Dr Sarah Byakika, the commissioner for planning, financing and policy at the Ministry of Health, said underfunding has caused drug shortage in many hospitals.