The availability of ultrasound scans at health centers across Karongi district has significantly contributed to reducing stunting cases, according to local authorities. An ultrasound scan, as defined by health practitioners, is an imaging test that uses sound waves to create pictures of organs, tissues, and other structures inside the body. ALSO READ: Ultrasound scan vital for mothers In Karongi, pregnant women were initially hesitant to participate in pregnancy testing programs due to cultural beliefs, fearing that the scans could harm their babies through witchcraft, Mayor Valentine Mukase told The New Times. However, attitudes shifted when ultrasound scans were introduced at all health centers in the district. Pregnant women began to embrace the practice of pregnancy testing. Previously, women had to walk long distances to access such medical scans, which posed a significant challenge for obtaining necessary health services. The pregnancy test program using ultrasound technology has helped us monitor a baby’s growth inside the mother's womb. It is one of the factors that has contributed to the decline in stunting in Karongi district. If a baby is found to have health issues while still in the womb, the mother receives counseling to take care of herself and her baby, leading to healthier deliveries, Mukase noted. ALSO: Youth facility in Nyamasheke helping check drug abuse, teen pregnancies - officials Figures from the District show that the prevalence of stunting has decreased from 49.1 percent in 2015 to 25.3 percent. Data from the National Child Development Agency (NCD) also indicates a reduction in stunting prevalence in the Western province from 44.9 percent to 40.2 percent between 2015 and 2020. Despite this progress, stunting rates remain highest in the Western and Northern regions. Innocent Dusabimana, Head of Rubengera Health Center, highlighted that the ultrasound equipment they received through the 2019-2024 Rwanda-Belgium Bilateral Program, facilitated by Enabel, has significantly improved maternal and child health services. It helps us monitor the health of pregnant women and their babies. Some women come here unaware that they are pregnant or without knowledge of their monthly cycle. Previously, we had to schedule multiple or longer appointments until symptoms developed. The ultrasound scans have made our work much easier, he said. Florance Mutuyimana, a resident of Rugendera Sector, is one of many women who appreciates the availability of ultrasound scans at Rubengera Health Center. During our visit, she was there for a pregnancy test. It used to be very difficult to access ultrasound scans. I didn’t know that I was expecting twins, but with this scan, the midwife provided all the necessary information to prepare for their delivery, she added.'
