Goma, 13 December 2011 – Through funding from its Quick Impact Projects, the United Nations Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) provided the hospital of Kyeshero in Goma, Nord Kivu province, with brand new medical equipment, including two extractors, five oxygen bottles, one surgical lamp, one anesthesia machine, an intensive care unit, and a delivery table. The equipment was received by the medical personnel at the hospital on Tuesday, 13 December 2011, in the presence of the provincial Minister for Health, Mutete Mudinga, the hospital general manager, John Baelani, and the Head of MONUSCO Office in Goma, Hiroute Gebre Sellassie.

"Health care is the country's top priority," said Mr. Baelani, adding that "the donated equipment is in good hands and we will take good care of it."

Initiated by MONUSCO Medical Section, the total cost of the project was $23,000.

Kyeshero hospital was selected as the recipient of this equipment because it is at the cross-roads of an area, which became overpopulated, following the 2002 volcanic eruption that caused many displaced people. With this new equipment, the hospital will also serve the population living on the outskirts of the provincial capital Goma. MONUSCO Medical Section also initiated a training program for the medical staff on how to use this new equipment.

Clara Padovan/ MONUSCO