In Uganda, registered and enrolled midwives are permitted to operate independently only after acquiring a Private Practice Licence from the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC). This licence authorizes them to provide maternal care, childbirth services, and manage common health conditions within communities.
The licence ensures that practitioners meet professional standards, operate in safe premises, and maintain ethical medical practices as outlined in the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Act, 1996.
Step-by-Step Procedure
- Visit the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC)
Applicants must apply in person at the UNMC offices in Kawempe, Kampala. Obtain the prescribed application form from the Licensing Department or download it from the UNMC website. - Confirm Eligibility
- The applicant must be a registered or enrolled midwife.
- Must have served in an approved hospital or health unit for at least five years.
- Must possess a valid professional practising licence.
- Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the official form accurately, attaching all required supporting documents. Missing documents will render the application incomplete. - Attach Supporting Documents
Include the following:- Copy of certificate of registration issued by the UNMC.
- Application letter addressed to the Registrar, UNMC.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) and description of training.
- Recommendation letter from current or recent employer.
- Photocopies of professional certificates (present originals for verification).
- Copy of latest renewal of practising licence.
- Inspection form completed and stamped by the District Health Officer (DHO).
- Two passport-size photographs.
- Proof of suitable premises (clinic or maternity unit).
- Certificate of occupancy or tenancy agreement if applicable.
- Submit the Application
Deliver the completed form and all attachments to the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council Licensing Board for review. - Pay the Prescribed Fee
A non-refundable application fee of UGX 200,000 must be paid at the UNMC cashier or designated bank account. Attach the payment receipt to the application. - Evaluation and Inspection
Within seven (7) working days, the UNMC Licensing Board evaluates the application and, if necessary, conducts an inspection of the applicant’s premises to verify compliance with health and safety standards. - Approval and Licence Issuance
If the council is satisfied that the applicant meets all conditions, it issues a Private Practice Licence allowing the midwife to engage in independent practice. The council may impose specific operational terms and conditions. - Supervision and Renewal
The licence is valid for one year (calendar year). Renewal is required annually and may include inspection and submission of updated documents. Licensed midwives are also subject to monitoring and supervision by the Council’s Health Committee.
Required Documents
For Private Midwifery Practice
- Registered or enrolled midwife with at least five years’ experience.
- Current practising licence from UNMC.
- Equipped and approved premises suitable for maternal and child healthcare.
- Application letter and CV.
- Recommendation letter from employer.
- Professional certificates and inspection form verified by DHO.
- Two passport photos.
For Private Nursing Clinics
- Registered nurse with ten years’ experience and a valid practising licence.
- Suitably equipped clinic premises.
- Health inspection report from DHO.
- Renewal proof of professional licence.
Office Location & Contacts
Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council (UNMC)
Physical Address: Mukubira Zone, Kawempe Division, Kampala
P.O. Box 4046, Makerere Road, Uganda
Email: [email protected] / [email protected]
Website: [Link]
Eligibility
- Must be a registered or enrolled midwife with at least five years of service in a recognized hospital or health unit.
- Must hold a valid practising licence from the Uganda Nurses and Midwives Council.
Fees
| Type | Amount (UGX) |
|---|---|
| Application / Licence Fee | 200,000 |
All payments are non-refundable and made through the designated UNMC payment channels.
Validity
- The licence is valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
Processing Time
- The application is processed within seven (7) days, subject to successful document verification and inspection.
Important Instructions
- Ensure accurate details of your date of birth, training school, and place of work are included in the application.
- Any omission of documents or false information may lead to disqualification.
- The premises for private practice must be inspected and certified as safe and adequately equipped.
Required Information (Form Fields)
- Full Name
- Date of Birth
- National ID Number
- Current Postal Address
- Mobile Number
- Email Address
- Qualifications and Work Experience
- Declaration and Signature
Need for the Document
The Private Practice Licence empowers qualified midwives to operate independently, provide professional maternal care, manage childbirth, and handle common community health conditions. It ensures that only skilled and certified practitioners offer midwifery services under regulated standards.
