A new hospital in the Diocese of Rumonge, Burundi, was officially opened in August. Amahoro (Peace) Hospital, was formerly a health centre offering basic health care to the surrounding community. Listening and acting upon the needs expressed in the community for access to quality health services, the Diocese of Rumonge invested in the extension of the infrastructure which now provides more services.
The hospital has a capacity of 122 beds and Rumonge’s population, including the surrounding regions, will benefit from a range of healthcare services, particularly related to malnutrion in children.
When it started in 2019 as a health centre, it had 37 employees. It now employs 145 people, 13 of whom have been hired by the public health ministry. In a context of extreme unemployment, the Diocese of Rumonge was able to create jobs enablinghundreds of families to improve their living conditions because of the income.
Although this hospital has been able to achieve a lot during the past 4 years, some challenges remain and hinder its performance. The most recurrent challenges are related to the lack of energy. Some devices do not work properly, and the hospital does not yet have an ambulance or supply vehicle. Public subsidies are still low while more than 90% of the staff is dependent on the hospital. Amahoro Hospital also contributes to the financial funding of diocesan activities.
The diocese appreciates the support and collaboration of partners - the State of Burundi and its partners in the health and other organisations.
This official opening coincided with the celebration of the tenth anniversary of the creation of the Diocese of Rumonge.