Free maternity and newborn care: towards universal health coverage in the DRC
The President of the Republic Félix Tshisekedi recently called on the government to establish free maternity and newborn care as part of the implementation of universal health coverage in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This announcement was made by government spokesperson and Minister of Communication and Media, Patrick Muyaya, during a meeting of the Council of Ministers.
The objective of this project is to improve access to basic health care for the entire Congolese population, particularly the most disadvantaged social groups. This initiative aims to guarantee quality health care and services to pregnant women during the prenatal consultation period, as well as to women who have given birth and to newborns during the first month of their life.
To realize this vision, President Tshisekedi instructed the Prime Minister to issue two decrees. The first decree will define a basic healthcare package for all Congolese, while the second will create a national medicine purchasing service. In addition, the Minister of State, Minister of the Budget, will have to ensure that the necessary funds are allocated to ensure free childbirth in the State budget for the 2024 financial year.
The free maternity and newborn care program was officially launched on September 5 in Kinshasa, and will be gradually extended to other provinces of the DRC.
This initiative by the Congolese government demonstrates its desire to improve access to health care for all inhabitants of the country. By guaranteeing free maternity and newborn care, the DRC aspires to universal health coverage which will allow everyone to benefit from essential care without suffering financial constraints.
Implementing universal health coverage will require rigorous coordination and planning, as well as significant financial investment. However, the benefits to maternal and child health will be invaluable. This measure will help reduce maternal and infant mortality, as well as ensure an environment conducive to the growth and development of newborns.
In conclusion, the DRC is on the path to achieving universal health coverage thanks to the establishment of free maternity and newborn care. It remains to make these projects a reality through decrees and adequate funding. However, this initiative is an important step towards accessible healthcare for all in the DRC, and will help improve the health of pregnant women and newborns across the country.