UNICEF: Helping mothers prevent HIV transmission in DR Congo

UNICEF Executive Director Ann M. Veneman is in the Democratic Republic of the Congo for a five-day visit to assess the situation of women and children amidst what is widely seen as Africa's worst humanitarian crisis. Here is one in a series of related reports.

By Shantha Bloemen

KATANGA, Democratic Republic of the Congo, 27 August 2009 Louise Ngone is the head nurse of the Kikula Health Centre in Katanga. Ms. Ngone or Mama Louise as she is affectionately called is a tireless advocate for all children born in her clinic, and she is passionate about making sure as few of them as possible are born with HIV.

Although Kikula is a busy clinic with an average of 25 babies being delivered each week, the staff and volunteers are committed to patient confidentiality, close monitoring and follow-up care for their patients.

Perhaps because of this extra attention, the Kikula centre currently has the highest number of pregnant women who accept HIV testing in the province.

To read the full story, visit http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/drcongo_50968.html

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• UNICEF
• DR
• Congo
• Veneman
• Kikula
• Health
• Centre
• Katanga
• HIV
• AIDS
• HIV/AIDS