In a significant boost to humanitarian efforts in North Kivu, Alain Akpadji, the Representative of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), officially delivered a fully equipped, state-of-the-art ambulance to the Oicha General Reference Hospital. This vital vehicle is specifically designated for the maternity and obstetrics department, ensuring the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate care facilities.
This essential medical transport will primarily serve pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically ill children, and individuals wounded in conflict. Previously, the absence of specialized medical transport often turned patient transfers into perilous journeys, frequently with fatal outcomes. The arrival of this ambulance marks a turning point, promising to save countless lives.
The donation aligns with the national strategy of “zero franc at the cash register,” a crucial initiative funded by the National Fund for Reparations for Victims of Conflict-Related Sexual Violence and Other Crimes Against Peace and Humanity (FONAREV).
Doctor Kaseraka Nzala Essaie, the interim Medical Director of Oicha General Reference Hospital, expressed profound gratitude for UNFPA’s unwavering commitment. He highlighted the profound symbolic and practical significance of this contribution:
“In a region besieged by relentless attacks, this ambulance is far more than just a vehicle; it is a tool for survival. Here, every minute gained translates directly into a life saved.”
Beyond the provision of the ambulance, the hospital is also undergoing significant renovations, with rehabilitation work currently underway in the delivery room. The Oicha General Reference Hospital, which has a capacity of 89 beds, manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, operating under constant demographic pressure from the surrounding population.
Comprehensive and integrated care extends beyond transport
During his visit, the UNFPA Representative toured the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), located within the Oicha General Reference Hospital itself. This center is dedicated to providing holistic support for the severe trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized desks offer a full spectrum of assistance, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration services.
During the tour, several beneficiaries shared their powerful testimonies, expressing heartfelt gratitude for the high quality of support they had received. They underscored the critical role these services played in their journeys toward physical and mental recovery and reconstruction.
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 the Beni territory continues to deteriorate, with repeated attacks by the non-state armed group ADF forcing thousands of families to flee their homes. As a result, Oicha and Beni have witnessed a population surge of over 40% due to the arrival of extremely vulnerable displaced individuals.
Adding to this severe security crisis, marked by grave human rights violations and widespread conflict-related sexual violence, is the emergence of the 17th Ebola Virus Disease epidemic, identified as the Bundibugyo strain.
United Nations partnership for dignity
This crucial support is part of the Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU) and is financed by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program. This collaborative initiative brings together UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA, with UNFPA leading the consortium of agencies. The program works in partnership with local organizations such as PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO across North and South Kivu provinces to provide comprehensive assistance and reparations to victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.
