The UNFPA Representative, Alain Akpadji, officially handed over a fully equipped medical ambulance to the Oicha General Referral Hospital, specifically designated for its maternity and obstetrics department. This crucial donation aims to guarantee the swift and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities.
This initiative primarily benefits expectant mothers facing complications, survivors of sexual violence, children, and those critically wounded in conflict. Previously, the absence of suitable medical transport frequently turned patient transfers into perilous journeys, often with fatal outcomes.
The provision of this ambulance is a direct contribution to the national strategy of “zero franc at the cash register,” a program financed 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 acting medical director of Oicha HGR, expressed profound gratitude for UNFPA’s unwavering dedication to fostering a world where every pregnancy is desired and every birth is safe. He emphasized both the profound symbolic and practical importance of this gift:
“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 directly into a life saved.”
Beyond the ambulance donation, the hospital is also undergoing significant renovations to its delivery room. Oicha HGR, which operates with an 89-bed capacity, manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, contending with persistent demographic pressure.
Beyond transport: comprehensive and integrated care
During his visit, the Representative also toured the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), situated within Oicha HGR. This center offers a holistic approach to address the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized service points are established to provide comprehensive support, encompassing medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration assistance.
Several beneficiaries shared their personal accounts during the visit, expressing deep gratitude for the high-quality support they had received. They underscored the pivotal role these services played in their journey toward physical and mental recovery.
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
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. As a result, 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, 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
Funded by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program—bringing together UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA—this critical support falls under the framework of Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU). UNFPA, which leads the agencies within this joint program, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO across the North and South Kivu provinces. Their collective mission is to support and provide reparations for victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.
