In 2007, Oliver was born at home, but his mother died during childbirth. His uncle, unable to care for him, abandoned him at a gravesite. Miraculously, local kids heard his cries and rescued him. Compassionate mothers at a nearby hospital provided the care he needed. Now a thriving teen, Oliver's story reflects the change we seek in Congo. By completing a Maternity Ward in Congo, we aim to provide comprehensive maternal and child healthcare, reduce mortality rates, and keep families together.
Congo (DRC) has some of the highest maternal and child mortality rates globally. The WHO reports a maternal mortality rate of 473 deaths per 100,000 live births and an infant mortality rate of 70 deaths per 1,000 live births in DRC. In contrast, the U.S. rates are 23.8 and 5.8, respectively, making maternal mortality nearly 20 times higher and infant mortality about 12 times higher in DRC. Women lack proper prenatal and postnatal care, leading to an orphan crisis due to maternal deaths.
Our Theory of Change: IF the maternity ward is built with adequate facilities and medical equipment, AND IF it is staffed by well-trained healthcare professionals providing comprehensive maternal and child healthcare, THEN we can expect a significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rates, healthier mothers and babies, and stronger families in Gemena. This project will transform the community, reduce mortality rates, address the orphan crisis, and model sustainable healthcare.
This project will profoundly impact the community by saving lives, reducing the orphan crisis, and improving overall family health. Over the past three years, we have served over 10,000 people in the Gemena region of Congo through our Judy Medical Clinic. Integrating a Maternity Ward into our existing medical facility will enable us to exponentially serve the community, significantly reduce maternal and child mortality rates, and address the orphan crisis by keeping families together.
