The health centers in the Watalinga chiefdom, in the Beni territory (North Kivu), have been experiencing operating problems for a month, according to local authorities. This worrying situation is attributed to the free healthcare project set up by the NGO Save The Children, which does not effectively respond to the health needs of the population of this region.
The head of the chiefdom, Mwami Pascal Saambili, stressed that the funding provided by the NGO for the operation of health structures was not sufficient to ensure adequate care for patients. He notably mentioned the Kamango General Reference Hospital, the Bugando health center, as well as other health centers where care problems were noted. According to him, some health professionals leave their positions because they are not properly remunerated by the free healthcare project.
The consequences are unfortunately dramatic, with cases of death recorded following the absence of doctors in certain health centers. Faced with this situation, traditional authorities are calling on Save The Children to improve its financing system in order to allow health professionals to continue to practice in satisfactory conditions.
This situation highlights the challenges facing many rural health systems. Access to quality care remains a major challenge in these regions, where financial and human resources are often limited. It is essential that organizations involved in humanitarian aid and development commit to providing adequate and sustainable support to ensure adequate health services in these communities.
It is also important to emphasize the importance of collaboration between local authorities, NGOs and health professionals to find lasting solutions to the problems encountered. Reliable and transparent financing mechanisms must be put in place to ensure continuous, quality care for the most vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, it is crucial to find solutions to overcome the financing and operating problems of health centers in the Watalinga chiefdom. Improving access to quality healthcare must remain a priority to ensure the well-being and health of local populations. By investing in strengthening rural health systems, we help build more resilient and healthier communities.