Médecins Sans Frontières Hollande (MSF-H) has launched a three-month project to provide free maternal healthcare services to pregnant women in the Sacré Cœur health area of Walikale, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The project, which began on October 1, 2026, aims to reduce maternal mortality rates by increasing access to healthcare services. The initiative will benefit approximately 13,000 inhabitants of eight villages around the rural commune of Walikale.
The project provides free services, including prenatal consultations, childbirth without complications, post-delivery consultations, and family planning services. Women requiring specialized care will be referred to the Walikale General Hospital. According to Dr. Bingi Hangi Richard, the zone's health chief, over 80% of pregnant women in the area give birth at the hospital, with an average of 500 births per month. The high volume of patients has overwhelmed the hospital, prompting MSF-H to expand maternal healthcare services to local health centers.
The Sacré Cœur health center has undergone renovations to accommodate the new services. Several rooms have been rehabilitated, and a solar system has been installed to improve electricity supply. The maternity ward has received equipment and ten beds for post-delivery care. The project's goal is to record approximately 80 births per month at the health center. MSF-H's intervention aims to decongest the hospital and provide quality healthcare services closer to the community.
MSF-H is already active in several other health facilities in the region, including the 8th CEPAC, Mpofi, Ngora, Ndofia, and Nyasi. These interventions include childcare services for children under five and family planning services. Local leaders have welcomed MSF-H's support, highlighting the significant needs of the health center. The parish priest, Abbé Désiré Maneno Byenda, has called on partners to continue supporting the development and sustainability of the health structure.
The representative of the Walikale territorial administrator, Major Willy Yala, emphasized that women should be able to give birth in safe conditions without financial burdens on their families. Dr. Bingi Hangi Richard encouraged pregnant women to attend regular prenatal consultations to monitor their pregnancy and identify potential complications early. The project aims to reduce maternal mortality risks by increasing access to quality healthcare services.
The project will benefit pregnant women and newborns in the Walikale health zone. MSF-H's intervention will help strengthen the capacity of the Sacré Cœur health center and improve maternal and child health outcomes. The organization hopes to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of the local population.
Local authorities and community leaders have expressed their appreciation for MSF-H's support. They emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to ensure the sustainability of the project and the health center. The project's success will depend on the continued commitment of all stakeholders involved.
Key points
- MSF-H launches three-month project to provide free maternal healthcare in Walikale's Sacré Cœur health area.
