The recent announcement of the establishment of free medical care for pregnant women and newborns in the Tshopo province of the Democratic Republic of Congo marks a major step forward in the maternal and child health sector. This initiative, scheduled to come into effect by the end of January 2025, aims to significantly improve maternal and child health indicators, with an expected positive impact on reducing maternal and neonatal mortality.
Dr. Anatole Mangala, Director General of the Health Solidarity Fund (FSS), stressed the importance of this measure in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) established by the international community. By establishing free medical care, the authorities of the Tshopo province seek to ensure equitable access to health care for all pregnant women and newborns, regardless of income or social status.
Preparations for the launch of this program are already underway, with the finalization of collaboration agreements and the selection of health care providers. Dr. Mangala stressed the commitment of the authorities to financially support this project, in order to ensure its effective start-up and smooth operation by the end of January. This initiative will relieve families of the costs related to health care during pregnancy and the first months of children’s lives, thus contributing to improving the overall health of the population.
In addition to its direct implications on the health of pregnant women and newborns, this free medical care program should also have a broader impact on all families in Tshopo province. By reducing the financial burden associated with health care, it could represent a real relief for many families, especially the most disadvantaged.
This initiative positions Tshopo province among the first to benefit from the support of the Health Solidarity Fund, joining Kinshasa, Congo Central and Kasai Oriental. With the announcement of the extension of this program to five new provinces by the end of March 2025, this project is set to have a significant impact at the national level, helping to ensure equitable access to health care for the entire Congolese population.
By guaranteeing free health care for pregnant women and newborns, the province of Tshopo is committed to equal access to health services, thus contributing to the realization of the fundamental right to health for all. This measure demonstrates the determination of local authorities to address the challenges in maternal and child health, and to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for the entire Congolese population.