The health system in South Kivu in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is near total collapse because of prolonged conflict.
In May, Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) launched a two-month emergency intervention in the Katana and Kalehe areas, providing free, lifesaving care to more than 2,480 people, and donating significant quantities of medical supplies to health facilities in these areas of South Kivu to help meet people’s needs.
Most facilities forced to close by conflict or damage
A March assessment by MSF revealed the scale of the crisis following violent clashes in the region at the start of the year: Of 24 health facilities in Katana and Kalehe, 15 had to close, 10 were damaged, and 16 looted. In response, MSF supported the general reference hospitals of Katana and Kalehe, as well as the health centers of Katana Nuru, Mabingu, Lushebere, Kalehe, and Luzira.
MSF’s intervention focused on pediatric care for children under 5, malnutrition, complex OB-GYN care, and support for victims of violence. Economic hardship and insecurity prior to MSF’s arrival have meant that many patients face significant barriers to care.
“The number of patients has soared since MSF arrived,” said Dr. Bahati Magadju, director general of Katana General Reference Hospital. “We used to admit just five new pediatric cases a week. By June, the number of weekly admissions was around 60. Free care and the delivery of medical supplies from MSF have helped reduce mortality rates.”
What to know about the intensified conflict in DR Congo
Read moreHunger adds to challenges
Clashes between armed groups in the region have led to rising levels of hunger, with many families forced to flee their lands and food prices rising.
“Many families have lost their livelihoods and can’t afford enough to eat,” said Emmanuel Njikam, MSF’s deputy project coordinator. “By providing therapeutic foods like Plumpy’Nut, MSF has saved lives and helped children recover from malnutrition.”
Before ending its emergency intervention, MSF donated medical supplies to support hospitals and health centers in the area for an additional month.
Logistical challenges to humanitarian access remain
While MSF’s intervention has allowed health systems in the area to recover, the closure of airports in Bukavu and Goma continues to limit humanitarian access.
"There are still areas where we cannot intervene, even though the needs remain immense," emphasizes Muriel Boursier, MSF head of mission in Bukavu.
"It is essential that all actors guarantee safe passage for humanitarian aid and that a regular supply of medicines and therapeutic foods is ensured by the Ministry of Health and its partners. Too many health centers remain severely understocked."
