Dr. Luc Mulimbalimba Masururu’s humanitarian and community development mission is making a profound impact in Central Africa. In Burundi, the focus remains on the challenges faced by Congolese refugees and internally displaced persons, particularly in the province of Cibitoke.
During a recent visit to the Kishemere refugee camp, Dr. Mulimbalimba was warmly received, with traditional songs and dances celebrating his presence. He toured several households and witnessed the dire humanitarian conditions firsthand. Moved by the situation, he distributed clothing to pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as Days for Girls Kits for all the women in the camp. These kits are especially important in an environment where hygiene products are limited, helping to prevent infections associated with poor sanitation. Additionally, pregnant women received Birthing Kits designed to ensure safer deliveries, thereby decreasing the risk of infection and infant mortality.
Dr Mulimbalimba took a moment to express his appreciation to the Burundian government for its support of Congolese refugees.
Following his visit to Kishemere, he travelled to the Kasenga IDP camp, where conditions were equally concerning. Many mothers with newborns were sleeping on the bare ground without proper bedding or clothing. The inadequate tarpaulin shelters left families vulnerable to harsh weather, leading to serious health complications, including respiratory infections and hypothermia. This situation is particularly hazardous for young children, who also face issues like malaria and asthma.
In response, Dr Mulimbalimba and the MHCD (Mission in Health Care and Development) distributed paediatric mattresses, blankets, and baby clothing to all mothers and their infants. This assistance significantly improved the living conditions for these families, allowing them to sleep more comfortably and protect themselves from illness. The gratitude expressed by the beneficiaries was overwhelming; many women shed tears of happiness as it was often their first experience receiving such support.
The contributions were made possible through the generosity of MHCD’s friends and partners in Australia, including organisations such as the Birthing Kit Foundation Australia, Days for Girls Kits Adelaide, Adelaide Women and Children’s Hospital, Bethesda Ministries International, Wheelchairs for Kids Perth, and Uniting Church of Murray Bridge.
Pregnant women over six months also received Birthing Kits, which will be distributed to traditional midwives, local midwives, and health facilities to assist during childbirth. Some women shared stories of successful deliveries attributed to previous donations, particularly at the MHCD Medical Centre in Kiyaya Uvira.
Moreover, physically disabled children in the camp received wheelchairs, providing them with newfound freedom of movement, which brought immense joy to their families.
The appreciation from women and girls who received Days for Girls Kits was heartfelt, highlighting the vital support offered. The community of Uvira and the DRC at large express their gratitude to the Australian friends of MHCD and the dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to collect, pack, and ship essential medical supplies.
These contributions are crucial; without them, the level of support provided in the refugee camps would be severely limited. Dr Luc Mulimbalimba and the people of Uvira extend their sincere thanks to everyone who has played a part in this humanitarian effort. May blessings abound for each of you.
It is also important to highlight that breastfeeding and expectant mothers in the IDP camp are in urgent need of adult mattresses and food. These women are enduring significant hardships and rely entirely on MHCD for support. Proper nutrition is essential for breastfeeding mothers to ensure the health of their infants.
Please consider sharing this report and video within your networks to raise awareness about the humanitarian crisis affecting Congolese refugees and internally displaced persons.
Thank you once more, and may God bless you abundantly.
