Why did Congo's free maternity care program end in Goma?

The program's funding was not renewed in June, and explanations from Congolese and M23 officials remain unclear, though one M23 official called it a failure.

What are the consequences of the free maternity care ending in eastern Congo?

Mothers are struggling to afford childbirth services, leading to increased home births without skilled assistance and a greater risk of maternal and neonatal deaths.

How has the conflict in eastern Congo affected healthcare access?

The conflict has collapsed public institutions, disrupted essential services, displaced over 700,000 people, and caused medicine shortages, making even basic care inaccessible for many.

Home / Health / Congo: Free Births End Amid War, Mothers Despair

Congo: Free Births End Amid War, Mothers Despair

11 Dec

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Summary

Free maternity care program ended in June, leaving mothers unable to afford services.
Conflict and collapsed infrastructure strain essential services in Goma.
Maternal deaths remain high, with home births increasing due to costs.

Congo: Free Births End Amid War, Mothers Despair

The cessation of Congo's free maternity care program in June has plunged mothers in Goma into crisis. Irene Nabudeba, a mother of five, fears for her sixth child's survival as she cannot afford the hospital fees, a situation exacerbated by the ongoing conflict and economic collapse in the city.

Clinics and hospitals are struggling with severe medicine shortages and staff exodus, partly due to the M23 rebel activity. This insecurity and displacement disrupt essential services, leaving civilians with limited access to basic care. Childbirth now costs between $5 to $10, a sum many Goma residents cannot afford.

Health workers report a significant drop in facility births since the program ended, with more women risking dangerous home deliveries. The collapse of public institutions and soaring prices compound the hardship, pushing vulnerable families further into suffering.