Healthcare Scenario of Democratic Republic of The Congo

In this article, Hospaccx Healthcare Consultancy has compiled essential information on the healthcare scenario in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). We explore major players in government healthcare, private diagnostic centers, and potential venture opportunities. Whether you’re planning to build, restructure, or invest in the DRC’s healthcare sector, our analysis provides valuable insights into available facilities and optimal areas for investment.

 

Introduction

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), situated in the heart of Central Africa, is a vast and diverse nation known for its expansive landmass and rich natural resources. Despite its abundant potential, the country faces significant challenges, particularly in its healthcare sector. The Central Bank of the Congo oversees the Congolese franc, the primary currency in the nation, while the General Hospital of Kinshasa stands as a notable healthcare institution within its borders. The capital and the largest city of Congo is Kinshasa.

 

Demography

Population	102,262,808 (2023 est)
Population Density	45 people per Km2 (117 people per mi2) (2023 est)
Sex Ratio	1 male/female (2022 est)
Ethnicity	Luba-Kasai (7.7%), Kongo (6.9%), Mongo (6.9%), Lubakat (5.5%), Lulua (5.0%), Tetela (4.0%), Nande (3.7%), Ngbandi (3.1%), Ngombe (2.9%), Yaka (2.9%), Ngbaka (2.8%), Others (48.5%)

Fig 1. In Congo, the highest population is of Roman Catholics 50%, then comes Protestants 20%, Kimbanguist 9%, Muslims 9% and Others 12% (2023 est)

 Economy

Indicator	2022	2023	2024 (Estimate	2025-26 (Forecast)
Real GDP Growth (%)	8.9	7.8	6.0	5.8
Mining Sector Growth (%)	–	15.4	–	–
Agriculture Sector Growth (%)	2.4	2.2	–	–
Current Account Deficit (% of GDP)	4.9	6.3	–	–
Primary Driver of Growth	Mining	Mining	Mining	Mining
Key Challenges	–	–	Escalating War	–

Some important Health statistics

• Total fertility rate – 3.32 live births per woman (2023 est)
• Infant Mortality rate – 48.9 deaths per 1,000 live births (2023 est)
• Maternal Mortality rate – 547 deaths for every 100,000 live births (2023 est)
• Urban Population – 53% of the Total Population (2022 est)
• Rural Population – 47% of the Total Population (2022 est)
• GDP growth rate – 8.92% (2022 est)

Major Diseases in Congo

Health Problem	Description
Respiratory Diseases	Common ailments affecting the respiratory system, contributing to the health burden in DRC
Malaria	Endemic in the region, malaria is a significant health concern, leading to illness and mortality
Tuberculosis	Infectious diseases caused by bacteria; Tb remains a prevalent health issue in the DRC
Intestinal Parasites	Parasitic infections affecting the gastrointestinal tract, posing health risks to the population.
Trypanosomiasis	Also known as sleeping sickness, this disease is caused by parasites transmitted by tsetse flies.
Yellow Fever	Viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, posing a risk of outbreaks in certain regions of the DRC.
Leprosy	Chronic bacterial infection affecting the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes, seen in the DRC.
Yaws	Bacterial infection primarily affecting the skin, bones, and joints, presenting a health challenge.
HIV/AIDS	Viral infection with significant prevalence in the DRC, requiring comprehensive public health efforts.

Healthcare Scenario in Congo

• The healthcare system in the DRC is predominantly characterized by its struggling public sector.
• Public hospitals often operate with outdated and inadequate equipment, compounded by shortages in essential supplies and personnel.
• Despite the majority of the population living below the poverty line, public healthcare services are not provided free of charge.
• In contrast, private hospitals, particularly those in major cities like Kinshasa, offer superior facilities and staff, making them an important resource for healthcare.
• Individuals are advised to utilize taxis in medical emergencies and maintain contact details for air evacuation services.
• Pharmacies are prevalent across the country, primarily in urban centers, although smaller establishments may have limited medication stocks.

Top 5 Cause of Mortality in Congo

1. Malaria (10-20%)
2. Respiratory Diseases (10-15%)
3. HIV/AIDS (5-10%)
4. Maternal and Neonatal Complications (5-10%)
5. Diarrheal Diseases (5-10%)

Major Diagnostic Centers in DRC

1. Laboratoire Biomédical St Raphael, Lubumbashi
2. Laboratoire D`analyses Medicale Et D`imagerie Médicale Agoracare, Brazzaville
3. Cem (Cabinet D`exploitation Medical), Kinshasa
4. Échographie, Kinshasa
5. Advance Diagnostic Center, Kolwezi

Major Medical Hospitals in DRC

PUBLIC

1. General Hospital of Kinshasa – 2000 beds

Situated in the Gombe commune of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kinshasa General Hospital, also known as Hôpital Général de Kinshasa, has a rich history.

2. Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa – 648 beds

Established in 1957, located in the Gombe commune of Kinshasa, CUK operates under a structured organizational framework, encompassing various medical departments and serves as a hub for medical education, research, and patient care in the region.

3. Clinique Ngaliema Kinshasa – 317 beds

The Ngaliema Clinic, a Congolese public referral is situated in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. Established in 1927, it specializes in ophthalmology, otorhinolaryngology, cardiology, odontology, and dermatology.

4. Neosho Hospital, Goma – 120 beds

In February 2024, CBCA Ndosho Hospital in Congo expanded its capacity by setting up tents, anticipating a surge in patients, particularly those with severe injuries.

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

1. Saint Joseph´s Catholic Hospital – 120 beds

In the rural MULUMBA area of Lumami Province, this hospital is the sole healthcare provider for 340,000 people. It offers a range of services including pediatrics, surgery, internal medicine, obstetrics, imaging, lab tests, emergency care, pharmacy, and mortuary services.

2. Monkole Mother & Child Hospital, Gombe – 160 beds

Monkole Hospital Center is operating since March 26, 1991, Monkole serves the community through two centers: the flagship Mother and Child Hospital Center in Mont Ngafula and Monkole Gombe Medical Center in Gombe Municipality.

PRIVATE

1. HJ Hospitals – 205 beds

Pioneering healthcare facility in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo was established in 2016, it boasts state-of-the-art diagnostic capabilities, including pathological labs and radiology services, alongside a multi-specialty hospital ⁽¹²⁾.

2. Heal Africa Hospital – 155 beds

HEAL Africa’s hospital in Goma, Northeast Congo, is renowned for its excellence in specialized care and medical training. Outreach programs extend its impact into local communities, providing essential services and training.

3. Mutombo Dikembe Hospital – 170 beds

The Foundation aims to enhance health, education, and quality of life in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It focuses on primary healthcare, disease prevention, health policy advocacy, research, and improving access to healthcare education for the Congolese population.

4. Mongala Medical Center – 54 beds

Established in Kinshasa in 1990, it offers a wide range of services including surgery, intensive care, imaging, cardiology, endoscopy, dentistry, laboratory, ophthalmology, pharmacy, and ambulance services, CMM provides comprehensive multidisciplinary care.

 

Conclusion

The healthcare landscape in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is marked by significant challenges alongside efforts to improve access and quality of care. Despite resource constraints, both public and private institutions play vital roles in addressing the healthcare needs of the population.

However, issues such as outdated infrastructure, limited access to essential services, and prevalent diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS persist. Initiatives by hospitals demonstrate ongoing efforts to overcome these challenges and enhance healthcare delivery. Moving forward, continued investment and collaboration are essential to strengthen the healthcare system and ensure better health outcomes for all Congolese citizens.

For more details on planning and designing a new hospital in the Democratic Republic of Congo, reach out to Hospaccx Healthcare Business Consulting Pvt. Ltd. Contact us via email at hospaccx.india@gmail.com or visit our website  www.hospaccxconsulting.com. We are here to support your healthcare initiatives in the DRC.

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