The medical care of orphaned children is a major challenge in many regions, and the Tukinge Yatima orphanage in Kasindi, North Kivu, is no exception. In a recent interview given to Radio Okapi, Marie Des Ange Kavugho, head of the orphanage, pleaded for the construction of a pediatrics department within its structure in order to be able to offer adequate medical care to more than 500 children.
According to Ms. Kavugho, children at the orphanage frequently suffer from malaria and malnutrition, largely due to the hot climate in the area. Every day, at least two children must be transported to health facilities to receive medical care. However, due to the insolvency of the orphanage, some of these structures now refuse to take in these children.
The situation is all the more alarming as insecurity in the region has led to an increase in the number of orphans. Mrs. Kavugho therefore calls on the government to restore peace in the territory of Beni, which would facilitate the return of refugees to their villages of origin.
The construction of a pediatrics at the Tukinge Yatima orphanage would be an essential solution to ensure adequate medical care for children. Not only would this meet immediate health needs, such as treatment for malaria and malnutrition, but it would also provide a real care infrastructure for the children in the orphanage. It would also relieve the financial burden of Ms Kavugho, who is currently forced to buy medicine from the pharmacy for sick children.
It is therefore crucial that concrete measures be taken to respond to this urgent call. The health and well-being of orphaned children must be a top priority, and building a pediatrics facility at Tukinge Yatima Orphanage could make a real difference in their lives. More than ever, it is essential to support these initiatives which aim to provide quality care to the children who need it most