Mothers at risk as free maternity care ends in Congo

A healthcare facility in eastern Congo, including a maternity ward, faces significant challenges following recent escalations in regional conflict. The instability has disrupted medical supply chains and essential infrastructure, such as running water, particularly affecting the city of Goma.

Until June, the Congolese government provided free maternity care, a crucial service for many women seeking safe deliveries. However, the program was discontinued, significantly reducing access to necessary healthcare services. Freddy Kaniki, deputy coordinator of the M23 rebel movement, stated that the program was not renewed due to its perceived failure. Congolese authorities have not commented on the cessation of the initiative.

Many women, including expectant mother Irene Nabudeba, are now facing the prospect of giving birth at home due to the high costs of hospital deliveries. Nabudeba expressed the financial burden of previous deliveries and her uncertainty about affording upcoming medical expenses.

According to Franck Ndachetere Kandonyi, head nurse at the Afia Himbi Health Center, the free maternity program significantly increased the number of deliveries handled at the facility, peaking at 20 per month. The program's termination has led to a noticeable decline in hospital births.

The humanitarian situation has worsened since the M23 rebel group seized control of Goma and Bukavu. As of 23 January 2025, over 700,000 individuals have been displaced due to intensified conflict. Public institutions have largely collapsed, and essential services remain disrupted, exacerbating the region's health crisis.

Maternal mortality is expected to rise in these conflict zones, primarily due to the lack of emergency obstetric services and the inability of women to access hospitals in a timely manner.

Based on reporting by Africanews.