The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Rehabilitates and Equips a Maternity Ward in Lubumbashi

Lubumbashi, May 24, 2024

On this memorable day, the Jason Sendwe General Referral Hospital in Lubumbashi officially inaugurated a rehabilitated and equipped maternity ward, thanks to the generosity of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. This initiative, led by the Church’s Humanitarian Aid Department marks a significant step towards improving maternal healthcare in the Haut-Katanga province.

The event was graced by the presence of Elder Paul Pieper, a member of the Africa Central Area Presidency, accompanied by Elder Ilunga Ndalamba and Elder Kongolo Pungwe, Area Seventies in the same area. The Hospital’s Medical Director, Dr. André Mwelwa, and the Provincial Minister of Health, His Excellency Joseph Sambi Bulanda, were also among the dignitaries present.

In his opening speech, His Excellency Joseph Sambi Bulanda, expressed his deep gratitude : “We want to thank The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for this act of generosity and love that aims to save human lives and will help save the lives of our mothers giving birth.” According to him, this gesture is a tangible demonstration of the Church’s commitment to the Congolese community.

Dr. André Mwelwa, visibly moved, shared his appreciation in these words : “I bless the day our paths crossed because your presence and support for this hospital have already saved the lives of several children, and we believe that with this aid, we will save many more lives of our mothers giving birth.” His words touched the assembly, highlighting the immediate positive impact of this donation on the care provided at the facility.

This rehabilitation of Jason Sendwe Hospital includes not only the renovation of the infrastructure but also the provision of modern medical equipment essential for ensuring safe deliveries. The joint efforts of the Church and local professionals have transformed an aging building into a state-of-the-art facility, ready to welcome expectant mothers in optimal conditions.

Elder Paul Pieper, officially handing over the keys to the maternity ward, stated, “It is with immense honor that we participate in this ceremony. Our Church believes in the importance of supporting local communities and making a tangible difference in individuals’ lives. We hope that this building will become a symbol of hope and renewal for all the families who pass through it.”

This initiative is part of a broader scope of humanitarian efforts deployed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Through various community development projects, the Church strives to meet the essential needs of the populations, particularly focusing on the health, education, and economic empowerment sectors.

The impact of this rehabilitation extends beyond the walls of the maternity ward. It symbolizes a beacon of hope in a region often faced with significant economic and social challenges. By providing quality medical facilities, the Church not only helps save lives but also strengthens the residents’ confidence in local healthcare systems.

The handover ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the new facilities, allowing guests to see the improvements firsthand. The smiling faces and warm thanks from the medical staff and community members present testified to the significant impact of this humanitarian project.

With this initiative, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints reaffirms its commitment to the well-being of local populations, demonstrating that faith and humanitarian action can go hand in hand to create a better future.