Fatshimetrie, September 11, 2024 – Progress towards free maternity in the Democratic Republic of Congo was recently discussed during a meeting between the Governor of Kongo Central Province and the Director General of the Health Solidarity Fund (FSS). This initiative is part of the Head of State’s desire to establish Universal Health Coverage for the entire population.
Dr. Anatole Mangala of the FSS stressed that free health services, including childbirth, will soon be a reality in Kongo Central Province. Feasibility studies, accreditation of health care providers, signing of contracts and opening of bank accounts are all steps taken to implement this program.
In addition to childbirth, other health services will also be covered, thus helping to improve access to care for the population. However, challenges persist, particularly in terms of neonatology infrastructure and patient transfer to major hospitals.
Kongo Central will soon join the provinces benefiting from the free maternity and newborn care program in the DRC. Currently, 13 provinces, including Sud-Ubangi, Tshuapa, Mongala, Maï-Ndombe, Kwango, Nord-Kivu and Haut-Lomami, offer the first package of care to women and newborns under Universal Health Coverage.
This program aims to reduce maternal and infant mortality in the DRC by providing essential quality care during the perinatal period. The establishment of free maternity care is therefore a major step forward in the field of health in the DRC, contributing to improving the well-being of the most vulnerable populations.