Full Breakdown
End of Free Childbirth Program in Eastern Congo Heightens Maternal Health Crisis
12/12/2025, 12:16:03 AM
Deteriorating Conditions for Expectant Mothers
The cessation of a free maternity care program in eastern Congo has exacerbated the already dire conditions for pregnant women in the region. Irene Nabudeba, a mother of five, expressed her anxiety about giving birth in Goma, a city currently under rebel control. The program, which provided free consultations and treatment for at-risk pregnancies, was not renewed in June 2025, leaving many women unable to afford necessary maternal care. Congo ranks second globally in maternal deaths, with 19,000 fatalities reported in 2023, according to United Nations statistics. The ongoing conflict, particularly the resurgence of fighting involving the M23 rebels, has further strained healthcare resources and infrastructure.
Impact of Conflict on Healthcare Access
The conflict in eastern Congo has led to significant disruptions in healthcare services. An assessment by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in September revealed that at least 85% of health facilities were facing medicine shortages, with nearly 40% experiencing staff exodus due to the violence. The ICRC reported that 200 health facilities had run out of medicines due to looting and supply chain disruptions. As a result, childbirth costs in Goma have risen to between $5 and $10, a prohibitive expense for many families in a region where over 70% of the population lives on less than $2.15 a day.
Voices from the Ground
Healthcare workers have noted a dramatic decline in the number of births attended by skilled professionals since the program's termination. Franck Ndachetere Kandonyi, chief nurse at the Afia Himbi health center, reported that monthly births dropped from over 20 to just nine. The economic situation has worsened, with banks closing, prices soaring, and the Congolese franc depreciating. Nabudeba's husband, a driver, has been unemployed since the onset of the conflict, leaving their family struggling to survive. Similarly, Ernestine Baleke, who is pregnant with her ninth child, lamented her inability to afford transportation to the hospital, stating, “I don’t even have 100 francs (45 cents) in my pocket.”
Criticism of Government Response
The lack of renewal for the free maternity care program has drawn criticism from expectant mothers and healthcare professionals alike. Baleke emphasized the urgent need for authorities to restore free healthcare, warning, “We risk dying in our homes while giving birth.” Freddy Kaniki, deputy coordinator of the M23, claimed the program was not renewed due to its perceived failure, although he did not provide further details.
Conclusion
As the humanitarian crisis deepens in eastern Congo, the end of the free childbirth program has left many women vulnerable to unsafe delivery conditions. The ongoing conflict and economic instability continue to threaten maternal health, highlighting the urgent need for renewed support and resources for healthcare in the region.
