Page 83 - NEW ENERGIES Beyond Data

Mohammed Garba Buwa

Gynaecologist, Gombe State Specialist Hospital

Gombe State

As a gynecologist at the State Specialist Hospital in Gombe, I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact
of unreliable electricity on patient care. Before we had access to solar technology, frequent power outages, and
malfunctioning generators left us grappling with life-threatening situations. Critical surgeries and deliveries often
had to be performed under inadequate lighting, and the lack of power meant we could not operate at full capacity.

Between January and June 2018, 38 women lost their lives during pregnancy
or shortly after delivery—an average of at least six deaths per month due to
pregnancy or labor complications.

During the same period, over 300 newborns died, averaging at least 50 deaths per month. Emergency cases

were regularly referred to other hospitals, which many low-income patients could not afford, leading to further
preventable deaths.

Solar lighting has provided consistent and reliable illumination, significantly improving the obstetrics and
gynecological theater where critical procedures take place. Since the installation of the solar panels, maternal and
infant mortality rates have dropped dramatically. In 2023, for example, maternal deaths fell to 10 for the entire
year, and infant mortality was reduced to a maximum of 17 per month.

Our hospital has transitioned from being a facility that referred patients out
to one that now receives referrals including from neighboring states.

With a more conducive environment for both patients and staff, we can now perform at our best.

83