“The need for pediatrics for the Tukinge Yatima orphanage in Kasindi, North Kivu”
Marie Des Ange Kavugho, head of the Tukinge Yatima orphanage in Kasindi, recently launched an urgent appeal for the construction of a pediatrics unit within her structure. This call comes because of the growing challenges the orphanage is facing in providing medical care for the approximately 500 children it houses.
In an interview with Radio Okapi, Marie Des Ange Kavugho points out that children in the orphanage often suffer from diseases such as malaria and malnutrition, which are amplified by the hot climate of the Kasindi region. Every day, at least two children are taken to local medical facilities due to illnesses. However, the insolvency of the orphanage poses a problem because certain medical structures are beginning to refuse to accept these children.
Marie Des Ange Kavugho explains, “Simple malaria will be treated at the orphanage, but serious cases should be transferred to the general hospital. Unfortunately, the state hospital recently refused to treat them due to the lack of financial means. This blocks me because the children are sick and I have to buy them medicine at the pharmacy”.
Besides the challenges related to children’s health, Marie Des Ange Kavugho also highlights the increase in the number of orphans in the region due to the persistent insecurity. It therefore calls on the government to restore peace in the territory of Beni in order to facilitate the return of refugees to their villages of origin.
The construction of a pediatrics within the Tukinge Yatima orphanage therefore appears to be an essential solution to guarantee adequate medical care for the children of the orphanage. By providing quick and safe access to health care, this initiative would reduce the complications of illnesses and guarantee the well-being of children. However, it is essential that adequate financial means be put in place to ensure the functioning of this paediatrics.
The situation of the Tukinge Yatima orphanage in Kasindi once again highlights the importance of supporting childcare facilities for vulnerable children. It is essential to guarantee their access to quality health care to ensure their development and their future. Let’s hope that this urgent call from Marie Des Ange Kavugho will be heard and that concrete measures will be taken to meet the medical needs of these children