Alain Akpadji, the Representative for UNFPA, has presented a fully equipped medical ambulance to the maternity and obstetrics department at the Oicha General Reference Hospital. This crucial donation aims to guarantee the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.
This vital transport primarily benefits pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically ill children, and individuals wounded in conflict. Previously, the absence of suitable medical transportation often turned patient transfers into life-threatening journeys.
The provision of this ambulance aligns directly with the national strategy of “zero franc at the cash register,” a program financed by the National Fund for Reparations for Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and Other Crimes Against Peace and Humanity (FONAREV).
Dr. Kaseraka Nzala Essaie, the acting Medical Director of HGR Oicha, commended UNFPA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a world where every pregnancy is desired and every birth is safe. He emphasized both the symbolic and practical significance of this generous contribution:
“In a region constantly affected by recurrent attacks, this ambulance is far more than just a vehicle; it represents a tool for survival. Here, every minute saved translates directly into a life preserved.”
Beyond the ambulance delivery, extensive renovation work is currently underway on the delivery room within the hospital. HGR Oicha, with an 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 births each month, operating under continuous demographic pressure.
Beyond transport: integrated and comprehensive care
During his visit, the Representative also toured the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM) located within HGR Oicha. This center provides a holistic response to the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. It features specialized desks offering comprehensive support, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration services.
Throughout the tour, several beneficiaries shared their experiences and expressed profound gratitude for the high-quality support they received, emphasizing the critical role these services played in their journey of physical and mental recovery.
Alain Akpadji, UNFPA Resident Representative in the Democratic Republic of Congo, alongside survivors at the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center in Oicha, North Kivu.
Oicha: a humanitarian and health crisis epicenter
In the Beni territory, the security situation continues to worsen. Repeated assaults by the non-state armed group ADF have compelled thousands of families to abandon their homes. Consequently, Oicha and Beni are grappling with a population surge of over 40% due to the influx of highly vulnerable displaced individuals.
Compounding this security crisis, characterized by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, is the 17th outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (Bundibugyo strain).
United Nations partnership for dignity
This support, financed by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program (comprising UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA), forms part of the Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU). UNFPA, leading the agencies in this joint initiative, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO across the North and South Kivu provinces. Their collective mission is to assist and provide reparations for victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.
