Built through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), these structures represent a decisive step toward universal health coverage.

The province of Kwango has reached a major milestone in strengthening its healthcare system with the official handover ceremony of 17 health facilities. Built with the support of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), these facilities are set to be fully equipped in the near future.

Distributed across the health zones of Boko, Kimbau, and Popokabaka, these new structures include 15 health centers and 2 maternity wards. They aim to improve access to quality care for women, children, and the entire population.

Dr. Jacques Kimfuta, Head of the Kwango Provincial Health Division, emphasized the significance of this initiative.

"The objective of this event is to hand over 17 health infrastructures, consisting of 5 centers in each zone of Boko, Kimbau, and Popokabaka, as well as two maternity wards in the Boko and Kimbau zones. We thank KOICA, UNICEF, UNOPS, and Yonsei University for their unwavering support. We hope this momentum continues through future phases of the project."

Infrastructure Integrating Sustainable Solutions

Built according to the national standards of the Ministry of Health of the Democratic Republic of Congo, these facilities integrate sustainable solutions, including solar energy, access to clean water, and an ecological medical waste management system.

According to Ms. Fiona Merali, Senior Project Manager at UNOPS: "This project is the result of a collective effort. The construction of the 15 centers in the zones of Boko, Kimbau, and Popokabaka, as well as two maternity wards in the general referral hospitals of Boko and Kimbau, testifies to our shared commitment to maternal and child health and sustainable development."

UNICEF Representative Dr. Amédée Prosper Djiguimdé also lauded the project's success: "Thanks to collaboration with provincial authorities and partners, the centers will be provided with essential equipment. Furthermore, over 4,000 community health workers have been trained. These infrastructures will contribute significantly to reducing maternal and infant mortality in the region."

On behalf of the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Kinshasa, Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Lee Hyungoo reaffirmed her country's commitment: "South Korea is proud to support this initiative which will contribute to improving the health of women and children in the Democratic Republic of Congo. We hope these infrastructures become a lasting symbol of partnership, solidarity, and hope for the local community."

Representing the Secretary-General for Health, Ms. Rose Mundala Yema, Director of Health Care Facilities and Partnerships, highlighted the project's strategic scope: "The reception of these 17 infrastructures significantly strengthens health coverage in Kwango province. It aligns perfectly with the orientations of the National Health Development Strategic Plan 2024–2033, which aims for universal access to quality healthcare."

The Governor of Kwango, represented by the Provincial Minister of Justice, Mr. Timothée Nzundu, welcomed the initiative: "The province of Kwango is honored to benefit from this project. These infrastructures will contribute to reducing maternal, neonatal, and infant mortality, which is a national priority. We encourage the population to take ownership of these centers to ensure their sustainability."

The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the facilities, a group photo, and a social gathering, symbolizing a shared commitment to a healthier future.

Project Financed at $10.95 Million

The handover of these buildings is part of the project "Improving Maternal and Child Health by Strengthening the Health System in Kwango Province, DRC," funded by KOICA (2020–2026, $10.95 million USD) and implemented in partnership with the Government, UNICEF, UNOPS, and Yonsei University.

The project aims to sustainably strengthen the maternal and child health system through governance, capacity building for health personnel, supply of essential medicines, community awareness, and infrastructure development. The overall objective is to significantly reduce maternal, neonatal, and infant mortality, while improving access to and the quality of care.

KOICA/DRC

LINK : https://www.forumdesas.cd/kwango-remise-officielle-de-17-infrastructures-de-sante