The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) stands out as a leader in Africa in terms of childhood vaccination rates. According to the Congolese Minister of Health, Samuel Roger Kamba, around 50% of the country’s children are now vaccinated, a remarkable increase from the previous 32%. This significant improvement is the result of reforms put in place by the Congolese government to improve the health system.
Before the current government came to power, the DRC suffered from a lack of effective health policy. Funding for vaccines was insufficient, limiting access to care for many children. However, the government has taken steps to remedy this situation.
One of the main changes was the establishment of a universal health coverage policy. This policy aims to guarantee access to health care for all, including free childbirth. Since its implementation, around 8,000 women have been able to give birth free of charge in less than a month. In addition, screening initiatives for diseases, such as uterine cancer, will soon be implemented.
The Congolese government has also invested massively in the health sector, devoting 11% of the national budget to this area. This is a proportion well above the African average of 15%. Hospitals have been built and renovated across the country in line with the government’s development agenda. In addition, each territory of the DRC will benefit from the construction of six health centers. The Kinshasa provincial referral hospital, formerly known as Maman Yemo, will be inaugurated with 500 beds in December.
These efforts by the Congolese government have made it possible to considerably improve the vaccination rate of children. The DRC is now a model in Africa in terms of health, demonstrating its commitment to providing quality care to its population.
It is encouraging to see the progress made in health in the DRC. Investments in infrastructure and universal health coverage programs help improve the lives of Congolese people and guarantee a healthier future for future generations. Thanks to these measures, the DRC is on the way to becoming an example to follow in terms of health in Africa.