The UNFPA Representative, Alain Akpadji, officially handed over a fully equipped medical ambulance to the Oicha General Referral Hospital, specifically for its maternity and obstetrics department. This crucial donation aims to ensure the rapid and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.
This service primarily benefits pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically injured children, and war-wounded individuals. Previously, the absence of suitable medical transport often turned patient transfers into a perilous, sometimes fatal, ordeal.
This provision aligns directly with the national strategy of “zero franc at the till,” funded by 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, 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 contribution:
“In a region plagued by persistent attacks, this ambulance is more than just a vehicle; it is a tool for survival. Here, every minute gained signifies a life saved.”
Beyond the vehicle handover, renovation work on the delivery room is currently underway at the hospital. HGR Oicha, with its 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 deliveries per month amidst constant demographic pressure.
Comprehensive and integrated care extends beyond emergency transport
During his mission, the Representative also visited the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM) located within HGR Oicha. This center provides holistic support to survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized desks offer comprehensive assistance, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration services.
During the visit, several beneficiaries shared their personal stories and expressed profound gratitude for the quality of support they received, underscoring the vital role these services play in their journey of 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: an epicenter of human and health crises
In the Beni territory, the security situation continues to worsen. Repeated attacks by the non-state armed group ADF have forced thousands of families to flee their homes. As a result, Oicha and Beni are experiencing a population increase of over 40%, with an influx of extremely vulnerable displaced persons.
Adding to this security crisis, characterized by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, is the 17th outbreak of the Ebola Virus Disease (Bundibugyo strain).
United Nations partnership champions dignity
This support, financed by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program (involving UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA), falls under the framework of Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU). UNFPA, leading 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.
