The health centers in the Watalinga chiefdom, in the Beni territory (North Kivu), have been experiencing operating problems for a month. This worrying situation is linked to the free healthcare project set up by the NGO Save The Children, which does not fully meet the health needs of the local population.
According to the head of the chiefdom, Mwami Pascal Saambili, the main concern lies in the insufficient care of patients. The budgetary envelopes provided by Save The Children for the operation of health structures are not appropriate and do not meet the needs of medical staff. Some staff members even decided to leave their posts, leaving patients without adequate care.
These dysfunctions have already led to dramatic consequences, with cases of patient death due to lack of medical monitoring. Faced with this critical situation, Mwami Pascal Saambili warns: if Save The Children does not manage to improve the situation, it will be difficult for other nurses and health structures to continue to operate effectively.
It is essential that action is taken quickly to address these issues and ensure adequate access to healthcare in the Watalinga chiefdom. The health of local populations cannot be compromised due to shortcomings in the management of the free healthcare project. A reassessment of the budget allocated by Save The Children as well as better coordination between the NGO and local health structures are essential.
It is also important to emphasize the importance of collaboration between local actors, international organizations and public authorities to guarantee better functioning of health centers and optimal patient care. Health is a fundamental right and it is crucial to do everything possible to ensure its respect and protection in the Watalinga chiefdom, as everywhere else.