In eastern Congo, a region ravaged by conflict and instability, the discontinuation of a free maternity care program has left expectant mothers facing a dire situation. The program, which was terminated in June, had provided crucial access to healthcare for thousands of women, resulting in a significant reduction in maternal mortality rates. However, with the program’s end, many women are now being forced to give birth at home, without access to essential medical care.

The conflict in eastern Congo has already taken a devastating toll on the region’s infrastructure, with medical supplies and essential services severely disrupted. The local economy has collapsed, leaving many families struggling to afford basic necessities, including healthcare. The M23 rebel group’s seizure of key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, has further exacerbated the crisis, displacing over 700,000 people and crippling public institutions.

For women like Irene Nabudeba, who is expecting her next child, the loss of the free maternity program has created a sense of desperation. “I am seeing many women giving birth at home now because they can’t afford it,” she said. “I just found a small opportunity to come here for prenatal care, but I am almost due, and I don’t know where I will get the money to pay.” Nabudeba’s concerns are echoed by health workers, who have seen a significant decline in the number of women seeking medical care since the program’s termination.

According to Freddy Kaniki, deputy coordinator of the M23 rebel movement, the free maternal care program was not renewed due to its perceived failure. However, Congolese officials have not provided further clarification on the program’s termination. The consequences of this decision are already being felt, with many women forced to risk their lives by giving birth at home without access to medical care.

The humanitarian situation in eastern Congo continues to deteriorate, with aid agencies warning of a surge in maternal mortality rates. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has reported that over 700,000 people have been displaced since January 2025, with public institutions and essential services severely disrupted. As the crisis deepens, the need for access to healthcare, particularly for expectant mothers, has never been more pressing. The international community must take immediate action to address this crisis and ensure that women in eastern Congo have access to the medical care they need to give birth safely.