Location: Kinshasa

Situation:

Despite a wealth of natural resources, the economic, social and health systems in DRC have slowed down dramatically since the 1980s, followed by total collapse during two inter-African wars. During a long electoral process-supported by the international community-Joseph Kabila won the presidency, yet this has not brought any real political, economic or social stability to the country. Fighting started again in the East and on the Rwandan-Ugandan border in August 2008 and the regionalisation process was not implemented.

Activities:

The project aims to reintegrate and socialise street children through a partnership with a local NGO and through a network of local organisations. With healthcare and prevention, particularly AIDS, acting as our point of entry for engaging children, the activities are focused on primary care consultations, health promotion sessions on STIs and HIV/AIDS and referral of children to appropriate health facilities for STI and HIV screening and treatment. The project also helps clinics provide psychosocial support to children living with HIV/AIDS. Finally, the project also focuses on reintegrating street children.

Outlook:

Doctors of the World (DoW) has now completed its gradual withdrawal and has handed over to our local partner AED. DoW UK will start a new three-year project concentrating on the protection of girls living on the streets and their babies. The project will focus on reproductive healthcare, dealing with sexual violence and HIV/AIDS. Advocacy themes will also be developed.