LOCATION

Katanga, Tanganyika district (11 health zones)

SITUATION

In south-east DRC, the huge Katanga province is divided in two: the cobalt belt in the south, and the rural agricultural area in the north. Tanganyika district, which borders the conflict area, is a transition area where the health system remains extremely fragile. Cholera is endemic in lakeside areas and flourishes along the rivers and the main routes. Doctors of the World is supporting the health authorities.

SOLUTION

Support for the health authorities has been provided particularly in training and the supervision of health service staff (epidemiological surveillance, investigation of cases and caring for patients). DOW also donates medical supplies and non-medical support (epidemiological data collection tools). The programme aims to set up services to treat cases when epidemics flare up (opening or refurbishing cholera treatment centres), to co-ordinate epidemic control (defining local response and contingency plans with the political and administrative authorities). Finally, the programme has introduced health mapping.

RESULTS

3,675 cases treated, including 585 children under five, with a fatality rate of 2%.

OUTLOOK

LONG TERM

Based on a capacity-building approach which has been bolstered by partnerships that have been forged over five years with the district health  authorities, DOW plans to withdraw in 2011. The organisation is preparing to handover responsibilities to the relevant authorities.