UNFPA Representative Alain Akpadji recently delivered a fully equipped, medicalized ambulance to the Oicha General Referral Hospital, specifically for its maternity and obstetrics department. This crucial addition aims to facilitate the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to more specialized healthcare facilities.
The primary beneficiaries of these urgent evacuations include pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically ill children, and those wounded in ongoing conflicts. Previously, the absence of appropriate medical transport often turned patient transfers into a perilous, frequently fatal ordeal.
This significant donation aligns with the national strategy of “zero franc at the cash register,” a program funded by the National Fund for Reparation of Victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other crimes against peace and human security (FONAREV).
Dr. Kaseraka Nzala Essaie, interim Medical Director of Oicha General Referral Hospital, lauded UNFPA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a world where every pregnancy is wanted, and every childbirth is safe. He emphasized both the symbolic and practical importance of this contribution:
“In a region plagued by relentless attacks, this ambulance is more than just a vehicle; it represents a tool for survival. Here, every minute gained translates into a life saved.”
Beyond the vehicle’s handover, the hospital is also undergoing significant rehabilitation work on its delivery room. With an 89-bed capacity, Oicha General Referral Hospital manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, operating under constant demographic pressure.
Beyond transport: comprehensive and integrated care for North Kivu
During his mission, the UNFPA Representative visited the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), located within the Oicha General Referral Hospital. This center offers a holistic response to the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized service points are established to provide comprehensive support, encompassing medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration assistance.
Throughout the visit, several beneficiaries shared their personal stories and expressed profound gratitude for the quality of support they received, underscoring the pivotal role these services play in their physical and mental recovery journeys.
Alain Akpadji, resident representative of UNFPA in DRC, alongside survivors at the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center in Oicha, North Kivu. Photo: Junior Mayindu
Oicha, an epicenter of human and health crisis
The security situation in Beni territory continues to deteriorate. Repeated attacks by the non-state armed group ADF have forced thousands of families to flee their homes. Oicha and Beni are now grappling with a more than 40% increase in their populations due to the influx of extremely vulnerable displaced persons.
Compounding this security crisis, which is marked by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, is the 17th outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (Bundibugyo strain).
A United Nations partnership for dignity in DRC
This crucial support, funded by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program (bringing together UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA), forms part of the Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU). UNFPA, which leads the agencies in this joint program, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO in the North and South Kivu provinces. Their collective effort aims to provide comprehensive assistance and reparations to victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.