Title: The challenges of operationalizing the Public Health law in the DRC
Introduction :
From September 29 to 30, 2023, a major workshop was held in Kinshasa aimed at the operationalization of the Public Health law in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This event, organized by the Ministry of Health, Hygiene and Prevention, brought together numerous experts and senior officials to discuss the measures necessary to implement Universal Health Coverage and the International Health Regulations in the country. This article reviews the key moments of this workshop and the issues linked to this operationalization.
The modification of the law on Public Health:
The Minister of Health, Hygiene and Prevention stressed that the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage system in the DRC required a modification of the existing law. Thus, Law No. 18/035 of December 13, 2018 was amended by Ordinance-Law No. 23/006 of March 3, 2023, in order to integrate the fundamental principles relating to the organization of Universal Health Coverage. This modification marks an important step in the implementation of the promise of President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo.
The objectives of the workshop:
The workshop allowed the experts present to discuss the legal needs for the operationalization of the Public Health law. They also underlined the importance of taking implementing measures that take into account the close link between Universal Health Coverage and health security. Additionally, participants identified the services and actors involved in law enforcement measures.
Roadmap for enforcement measures:
The thirty experts present worked together to develop a roadmap aimed at drafting and adopting measures to implement the Public Health law. This roadmap will serve as a guide to accelerate the process of developing and adopting the necessary measures. In addition, it is planned to set up a technical commission responsible for the execution of this roadmap, in order to ensure its rapid and effective implementation.
Conclusion :
The workshop on the operationalization of the Public Health law in the DRC marked a crucial step in the process of establishing Universal Health Coverage and the International Health Regulations. Law enforcement measures are essential to guarantee access to quality health care for all Congolese citizens. With the roadmap established at this workshop, the country is now on the path to successful implementation of these fundamental principles.