The heart of our mission is to
HEAL, EQUIP, EMPOWER.
Champions for Congo partners with Nundu Deaconess Hospital (NDH)
and the Free Methodist Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo
as it provides holistic, compassionate healthcare in Eastern Congo in the name of Jesus.
Challenges We Impact
Maternal Mortality – The maternal mortality rate in South Kivu is among the highest in the world, estimated at around 500–540 deaths per 100,000 live births. Many women give birth without skilled attendants, and long travel distances to health facilities put mothers and babies at risk.
Neonatal Mortality – Over 25 newborns per 1,000 live births die in their first month of life, often due to preventable causes such as infection, prematurity, and lack of emergency care.
Malnutrition – Nearly 45% of children under 5 in Eastern Congo suffer from chronic malnutrition (stunting). Nundu Hospital and Jali Afya report hundreds of cases of severe malnutrition each year, requiring inpatient treatment and family nutrition support.
Conflict & Displacement – South Kivu remains affected by decades of armed conflict, with over 30,000 refugees and internally displaced people in Nundu’s catchment area alone. Displacement increases poverty, malnutrition, and vulnerability to disease.
Limited Healthcare Access – The doctor-to-patient ratio in DRC is about 1 per 10,000 people (compared to 26 per 10,000 in the U.S.). Nundu Deaconess Hospital and its 21 rural health centers are often the only reliable care available.
Poverty & Food Insecurity – Over 70% of the population in South Kivu lives below the poverty line, limiting access to nutritious food, school, and basic healthcare. Families often cannot afford hospital fees, requiring patient assistance funds.
Trauma and Mental Health – Ongoing conflict and widespread sexual violence have left tens of thousands in need of trauma-informed care. Yet there are fewer than 1 mental health professional per 100,000 people in the region.
Infrastructure Challenges – Roads are poor or impassable during rainy seasons. Patients often travel hours by foot or on motorbikes to reach healthcare. Essential medicines and supplies are difficult to deliver consistently.
High Burden of Disease – Malaria, tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, and cholera remain leading killers. In 2023, malaria accounted for nearly 50% of outpatient visits in health centers across South Kivu.
Education Gaps in Health Workforce – While the Nundu Nursing School has graduated over 450 nurses, there remains a severe shortage of midwives and specialists. Expansion is urgently needed to reduce preventable maternal and infant deaths.
We champion equitable holistic healthcare by delivering compassionate care, empowering communities, and building a resilient and sustainable healthcare system.
There are many creative ways to give and get involved.
Contact us to find out how!
