How Babies Were Swapped At UBH
21 January 2025
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The Government has described as “very unfortunate” the recent baby-swapping incident that took place at the United Bulawayo Hospitals (UBH). The case came to light after a mother who had given birth to a baby boy was handed a baby girl by hospital staff, sparking widespread concern and outrage.

The incident has prompted a formal investigation initiated by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, which is currently underway. Responding to the situation yesterday, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Aspect Maunganidze, expressed the Government’s concern and assured the public that steps are being taken to address the matter.

“The Ministry is aware of the unfortunate incident of ‘baby swapping’ that occurred at United Bulawayo Hospitals and awaits the results of the investigation that we instructed the hospital to undertake,” said Dr. Maunganidze.

He emphasized the need for a swift yet thorough investigation, while also recognizing the emotional sensitivities surrounding the matter. “While we expect the investigation to be concluded expeditiously, we acknowledge the sensitivities around the matter. Parallel to the investigative process, we have instructed the institution to assist with counselling all affected parties (including the staff), reorient or refresh our staff on the standard operating procedures during and after delivery, and reinforce the importance of good moral and ethical practice,” added Dr. Maunganidze.

The affected mother, who has chosen to remain anonymous for ethical reasons, initially raised concerns with the hospital after being informed by a nurse that she had delivered a baby girl via Cesarean Section. The nurse attributed the mix-up to potential confusion caused by the mother being under sedation during the procedure.

However, the mother maintained that she had delivered a baby boy and resorted to DNA testing to confirm her claims. The tests were conducted at a private DNA laboratory in Bulawayo and the National University of Science and Technology (NUST), providing the evidence needed to support her case.

The Government has assured the public that measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. These include reinforcing standard operating procedures for maternity care, providing ethical training for healthcare staff, and offering psychological support to those affected by the incident.

This case has raised serious questions about the hospital’s protocols during and after childbirth and highlighted the need for improved safeguards to protect the integrity of maternal and neonatal care in public health institutions. The Ministry has called for patience from the public as the investigation proceeds and has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing the matter.