Health Clinics in Rwanda and Congo

We are rebuilding and supplying rural health clinics in both Rwanda and the Congo to help communities near the gorillas’ habitat.

The people who live in areas near gorilla habitats in Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo have limited access to health facilities, and may have to travel long distances through dangerous territory to obtain health care. Many rural health clinics were looted or neglected during periods of civil war. By restoring these clinics we can provide the basis for a better quality of life for the people so they can become our partners in conservation.

Bisate clinic in Rwanda has undergone major renovation

Bisate Clinic in Rwanda

Rehabilitation and rebuilding of the rural Bisate clinic in Rwanda began in 2006, in partnership with Rwanda’s Ministry of Health. The clinic provides basic health care to 20,000 people who live near the mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park. It was in dire need of improvement, due to unsanitary conditions, lack of electricity and clean water, and demoralized staff. Extensive rebuilding, staff training, and supplements to staff salaries have greatly improved conditions. Solar panels now supply electricity, and a rainwater collection system provides clean water. There is a renovated delivery room, a computer, new beds and other basic equipment and supplies, sanitation staff, and a motivated medical staff supplemented by "community health animators."

Improvements at Bisate clinic include solar power, clean water and new equipment

Health clinics in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Six rural health clinics have been rehabilitated in Congo, and stocked with equipment and medicines. The Fossey Fund also helps pay salaries for these facilities. The Rumangabo clinic we support is near Virunga National Park, which includes the Congo portion of the mountain gorilla’s habitat.  The Mbuhi Clinic, near the community-based Tayna Nature Reserve, was renovated and supplied in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute. The other clinics serve the people who live near other community-based nature reserves that we support. All of these health clinics are constructed using inexpensive, natural materials. 

Learn about the all the ways that the Fossey Fund saves gorillas by helping people.