Alain Akpadji, the UNFPA Representative, recently delivered a fully equipped, medicalized ambulance to the Oicha General Reference Hospital. Specifically designated for the maternity and obstetrics department, this crucial vehicle will ensure the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.
This life-saving transport primarily benefits pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically ill children, and those wounded in conflict. Previously, the lack of suitable medical transportation often turned patient transfers into a perilous, frequently fatal ordeal.
The provision of this ambulance aligns directly with the national “zero franc at the cash register” strategy, a vital initiative funded by the National Fund for Reparations for Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and Other Crimes Against Peace and Human Security (FONAREV).
Dr. Kaseraka Nzala Essaie, the interim Medical Director of Oicha HGR, lauded the UNFPA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a world where every pregnancy is desired and every birth is safe. He underscored the profound symbolic and practical significance of this generous donation for the Nord-Kivu region:
“In a region plagued by incessant attacks, this ambulance transcends being merely a vehicle; it is an instrument of survival. Here, every minute gained translates directly into a life saved.”
Beyond the ambulance delivery, extensive rehabilitation work is currently underway in the hospital’s delivery room. The Oicha HGR, with its 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, operating under considerable demographic pressure.
Beyond transport: Integrated and holistic care
During his mission, the UNFPA Representative also visited the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), located within the Oicha HGR. This center provides comprehensive support for survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence, addressing their trauma holistically. Dedicated service points are available, offering medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration assistance.
Numerous beneficiaries shared their personal stories during the visit, expressing profound gratitude for the exceptional quality of support received. They highlighted the critical role these services play in their journey toward physical and mental recovery.
Alain Akpadji, resident representative of the UNFPA in DRC, alongside survivors at the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center in Oicha, Nord-Kivu.
Oicha: An epicenter of human and health crises
In the Beni territory, the security situation continues to worsen dramatically. Relentless attacks by the non-state armed group ADF have forced 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 extremely vulnerable displaced persons.
Compounding this security crisis, which is characterized 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
This vital assistance, funded by FONAREV through a collaborative United Nations Joint Programme (comprising UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA), falls under the framework of Emergency Provisional Measures. UNFPA, leading the consortium of agencies in this joint program, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO across the Nord-Kivu and Sud-Kivu provinces. Their collective mission is to support and facilitate the recovery of victims affected by conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes against humanity.
