Life-saving ambulance strengthens healthcare in Oicha, North Kivu

Alain Akpadji, the UNFPA Representative, recently delivered a fully equipped, medicalized ambulance to the Oicha General Referral Hospital, specifically for its maternity and obstetrics department. This crucial donation aims to provide swift and free transfers for medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.

This essential transport primarily benefits pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically injured children, and war-wounded individuals. Previously, the absence of suitable medical transportation often turned patient transfers into a perilous, frequently fatal ordeal.

The provision of this ambulance is a direct component of the national “zero franc at the till” strategy. This initiative receives funding from the National Fund for Reparations for Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and Other Crimes Against Peace and Security of Humanity (FONAREV).

Dr. Kaseraka Nzala Essaie, the interim Medical Director of HGR Oicha, expressed profound gratitude for UNFPA’s unwavering commitment. He highlighted the organization’s relentless efforts to foster a world where every pregnancy is intentional and every birth is safe. Dr. Essaie underscored the significant symbolic and practical impact of this contribution:

“In a region plagued by incessant attacks, this ambulance is more than just a vehicle; it represents a vital tool for survival. Here, every minute gained translates directly into a life saved.”

Beyond the ambulance delivery, extensive rehabilitation work is currently underway on the delivery room within the hospital. HGR Oicha, which has an 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 births each month, facing continuous demographic pressure.

Beyond transport: Integrated and holistic care

During his mission, the Representative also visited the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), located within HGR Oicha. This center provides a holistic response to the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized service desks are established to offer comprehensive support, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration assistance.

Throughout the visit, several beneficiaries shared their personal stories and expressed deep gratitude for the quality of care they received. They underscored the pivotal role these services play in their journey toward physical and mental recovery.

Alain Akpadji, UNFPA Resident Representative in DRC, with survivors at the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center in Oicha, North Kivu. Photo: Junior Mayindu

Oicha, at the heart of a human and health crisis

In the Beni territory, the security situation continues to deteriorate. Repeated assaults by the non-state armed group ADF have forced thousands of families to flee their homes. Consequently, Oicha and Beni are grappling with a more than 40% surge in their populations due to the influx of highly vulnerable displaced persons.

Compounding this security crisis, characterized by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, is the emergence of the 17th Ebola Virus Disease epidemic (Bundibugyo strain).

A United Nations partnership for dignity

This vital support, part of the Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU), is funded by FONAREV through a United Nations Joint Programme. This collaborative effort brings together UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA. UNFPA, which leads the agencies in this joint program, 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.