Oicha’s general reference hospital receives vital ambulance amid North Kivu humanitarian crisis

The UNFPA Representative, Alain Akpadji, recently delivered a fully equipped medical ambulance to the maternity and obstetrics department of Oicha General Reference Hospital. This crucial donation aims to facilitate the rapid and free transfer of medical emergencies to appropriate healthcare facilities in North Kivu.

This critical transport service is primarily intended for pregnant women experiencing complications, survivors of sexual violence, critically ill children, and those wounded in conflict. Previously, the absence of suitable medical transport often turned patient transfers into a perilous journey, frequently with fatal outcomes.

The provision of this ambulance aligns directly with the national strategy of “zero franc at the counter,” a vital initiative funded by the National Fund for Reparation of 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 Reference Hospital, commended the unwavering dedication of UNFPA, an organization committed to fostering a world where every pregnancy is desired and every birth is safe. He emphasized the profound symbolic and practical significance of this generous contribution:

“In a region plagued by incessant attacks, this ambulance is far more than just a vehicle; it is an essential tool for survival. Here, every minute saved translates directly into a life preserved.”

Beyond the ambulance delivery, extensive rehabilitation work is currently underway in the hospital’s delivery room. Oicha General Reference Hospital, which has a capacity of 89 beds, manages an average of 350 deliveries each month, operating under constant demographic pressure in the region.

Beyond transport: comprehensive and integrated care

During his mission, the Representative also visited the Integrated Multisectoral Services Center (CISM), established within Oicha General Reference Hospital. This center offers a holistic approach to addressing the trauma experienced by survivors of sexual violence and other forms of gender-based violence. Specialized desks are set up to provide comprehensive support, including medical, psychosocial, legal, and reintegration services.

Throughout the visit, several beneficiaries shared their personal stories and expressed profound gratitude for the high quality of support they had received. They underscored the pivotal role these services play in their journey toward physical and mental reconstruction.

Alain Akpadji, resident representative of UNFPA in the 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 more than 40% increase in their population due to the influx of extremely vulnerable displaced individuals.

Compounding this security crisis, which is marked by severe human rights violations and conflict-related sexual violence, the region is also battling its 17th outbreak of Ebola Virus Disease (Bundibugyo strain).

A United Nations partnership for dignity

This vital support, financed by FONAREV through a Joint United Nations Program—bringing together UNDP, UNICEF, UN Women, OHCHR, and UNFPA—forms part of the Emergency Provisional Measures (MPU). UNFPA, leading the agencies in this joint initiative, collaborates with PPSSP, Heal Africa, and TPO in the provinces of North and South Kivu. Their collective mission is to assist and provide reparations for victims of conflict-related sexual violence and other grave crimes.