News: Operationalization of the Public Health law in the DRC
From September 29 to 30, 2023, the Ministry of Health, Hygiene Prevention organized a crucial workshop for the operationalization of the Public Health law in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This initiative aims to establish the fundamental principles necessary for the implementation of the Universal Health Coverage system and the International Health Regulations (IHR).
The adoption of Law No. 18/035 of December 13, 2018, modified and supplemented by Ordinance-Law No. 23/006 of March 3, 2023, made it possible to integrate the fundamental principles relating to the organization of the Public Health and Universal Health Coverage in the DRC. This approach is part of President Felix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo’s promise to establish an irreversible Universal Health Coverage system in the country.
During the workshop, which brought together around thirty experts, including directors and heads of departments of the Ministry of Health, Hygiene and Prevention, public establishments such as the National Institute of Biomedical Research (INRB) and the National Institute of Health (INSP), a roadmap has been established for the drafting and adoption of measures for implementing the Public Health law.
The Minister of Health, Hygiene and Prevention, Dr Roger Kabamba, praised the work accomplished during this workshop and underlined the importance of the establishment of a technical commission responsible for implementing the road map, in order to accelerate the development and adoption of the necessary implementing measures.
This step marks significant progress in the realization of Universal Health Coverage in the DRC and in the implementation of the International Health Regulations. The implementation measures that will be put in place will strengthen the country’s health system and guarantee access to care for all citizens.
In conclusion, the operationalization of the Public Health law in the DRC is a crucial step in achieving the Universal Health Coverage system and in guaranteeing the country’s health security. Thanks to the implementation of enforcement measures, the Ministry of Health, Hygiene and Prevention will play a key role in improving health services in the DRC.