The strategic multisectoral plan for the elimination of cholera in the Democratic Republic of Congo was recently validated by the steering committee of the National Coordination of Action for Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (CNAEHA). This plan, lasting 4 years (2023-2027), aims to reduce the incidence and lethality of cholera in the country, while improving the diagnosis of cases of cholera and other diarrheal diseases.
The main objective of this plan is to improve the management of cholera cases, ensure adequate water supply and sanitation, promote preventive vaccination, conduct operational research, ensure effective coordination and raise awareness of cholera issues. It targets 62 priority health zones and aims to reach around 20 million people in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The chairperson of the CNAEHA steering committee, Judith Suminwa, expressed her intention to present the plan to the Council of Ministers in order to seek its adoption and mobilize the necessary resources for its implementation. She also plans to organize a round table with donors and technical and financial partners to obtain their financial support.
The Congolese Minister of Health, Roger Kamba, called on the government and its partners to allocate the necessary resources for the implementation of this action plan. He stressed that the eradication of cholera in the Democratic Republic of Congo was an ambition supported by this plan and promised to fully support it.
Cholera is a major problem in the Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The country recorded 922 cases and 7 deaths in the 40th week of this year. Executing this large-scale plan will require the collaboration of several ministries, including Public Health, Water Resources and Environment.
In conclusion, the Strategic Multisectoral Plan for the Elimination of Cholera in the Democratic Republic of Congo represents an important step towards the eradication of this deadly disease. Its implementation will require strong mobilization of financial resources and effective coordination between stakeholders. Hopefully, this plan will significantly reduce the incidence of cholera in the country and improve the health and well-being of the Congolese.