In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where three women succumb every hour to complications related to pregnancy and childbirth, access to accurate, real-time diagnostics, particularly in conflict areas, proves difficult. In this complex humanitarian context, the introduction of portable digital ultrasound devices by UNFPA, thanks to its partnership with Japan, offers tangible hope for reducing maternal mortality and empowering midwives.
During their recent visit to Goma, Shoko ARAKAKI, Director of the Humanitarian Response Division at UNFPA, and Lydia ZIGOMO, Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, praised the Japanese innovation and the unwavering commitment of the midwives, supported by UNFPA, for safer maternities.
I spoke with midwives who continue to deliver babies under extremely difficult conditions. These frontline health workers continue to serve their communities with courage and compassion," indicated Director Shoko ARAKAKi.
Between determination and persistent humanitarian challenges, a single message rings true: that of unfailing solidarity.
The reality experienced by the populations indicates that we are still needed as an international community and that much remains to be done to support local organizations working in this very difficult and demanding context," expressed Lydia ZIGOMO.
Faced with these immense challenges, this technological innovation, led by UNFPA with the technical collaboration of the company SOIK Corporation thanks to the support of the Japanese government, is transforming the daily lives of midwives.
Midwives: Frontline Providers, Armed with Cutting-Edge Technology
Traditionally, ultrasound was a privilege reserved for large cities and well-equipped hospital facilities. However, in remote areas of the DRC, access to such equipment is virtually nonexistent, making the early detection of pregnancy complications extremely difficult. In response to this challenge, digital ultrasound allows midwives to perform prenatal examinations using mobile phones, even outside of health facilities.
Previously, we did it based on estimations. With the portable ultrasound, I see the child, I can reassure the mother and anticipate complications. It's a revolution for us on the ground," emphasized Loti Kubuya, a midwife.
UNFPA and its partners are strengthening the deployment of the Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for sexual and reproductive health in emergencies, including prenatal care, assisted deliveries, postpartum care, family planning, and STI/HIV prevention. Since the crisis began, the agency has deployed over 148 out of 321 midwives across 42 health facilities in the North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri provinces. Sixteen midwives and doctors have been trained in Emergency Obstetric and Neonatal Care (EmONC) and the clinical management of rape. Forty midwives have been trained in quality prenatal consultations and pregnancy monitoring using digital ultrasound with the Smart Portable Antenatal Quick Diagnosis (SPAQ) tool.
The Call for Increased Support for Maternity Services
As Shoko Arakaki pointed out, needs are growing, but resources are not. The integration of technologies like portable digital ultrasound, the result of a partnership between Japanese technological innovation and UNFPA's humanitarian expertise, is a concrete example of how targeted solutions can have a profound impact. But the challenges are enormous: a lack of sufficient human resources and optimal skills to provide the full range of services.
However, to scale up these programs and further equip midwives, increased funding is essential. UNFPA, which only has half of its funding appeal for 2025, is targeting 1.4 million people with humanitarian aid. Including investments in these technologies is crucial for a lasting transformation of maternal healthcare in the DRC.
Given the scale of these challenges, UNFPA's call, carried by voices like those of its directors Shoko ARAKAKI and Lydia ZIGOMO, is a cry of hope and a commitment to support the resilience of Congolese women and girls, for safer motherhood and guaranteed dignity, even in difficult times.
