Alain Akpadji, the Representative for UNFPA, has officially handed over a fully equipped, medicalized ambulance to the maternity and obstetrics department at Oicha General Referral Hospital. This crucial donation aims to guarantee the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.
This new ambulance will primarily serve 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 journey, frequently with fatal outcomes.
The provision of this vehicle is a direct component of the national strategy known as «zero franc at the cash register». This vital initiative receives funding from 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 General Referral Hospital, lauded the unwavering dedication of UNFPA, an organization committed to fostering a world where every pregnancy is desired and every birth is safe. He emphasized both the symbolic and practical significance of this generous contribution:
“In a region constantly assailed by attacks, this ambulance is far more than just a vehicle; it represents a tool for survival. Here, every minute gained translates into a life saved.”
Beyond the ambulance delivery, extensive rehabilitation work is currently underway on the birthing ward within the hospital. Oicha General Referral Hospital, which operates with an 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, highlighting the immense demographic pressure it faces.
Beyond transport: integrated and comprehensive care
During his mission, the Representative also toured the Multisectoral Integrated Services Center (CISM), located within Oicha General Referral Hospital. This center provides holistic support to survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Dedicated service points are available to offer comprehensive assistance, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration services.
During the visit, numerous beneficiaries shared their personal stories and expressed profound gratitude for the high-quality support they had received, underscoring the pivotal role these services play in their journeys of physical and mental recovery.
Alain Akpadji, UNFPA resident representative in DRC, alongside survivors at the Multisectoral Integrated 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 its alarming deterioration. Persistent 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 population surge exceeding 40% due to the arrival of extremely vulnerable displaced individuals.
Adding to this security crisis, which is characterized by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, is the emergence of the 17th Ebola Virus Disease epidemic, identified as the Bundibugyo strain.
A United Nations partnership for dignity
This crucial support, financed by FONAREV through a United Nations Joint Program—comprising UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA—falls under the scope of Emergency Provisional Measures. UNFPA, which leads the agencies within this joint program, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO in the provinces of North and South Kivu. This partnership is dedicated to assisting and providing reparations for victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.
