Visiting the UCNDK Hospital and UCNDK University in Gom'a, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, provided a valuable opportunity to gain a deep understanding of the local conditions and to reaffirm the importance of our support efforts. Due to its proximity to refugee camps, the hospital provides medical care to many children and pregnant women who have suffered sexual violence, with approximately 500 newborns being delivered each month. We were greatly reassured to confirm that the ultrasound diagnostic devices we donated are being effectively utilized on-site.
However, the local medical environment is extremely challenging compared to Japan. We face issues such as a shortage of beds, with two patients sharing a single bed, and the absence of X-ray machines. Additionally, in the refugee camps, families of six live in small tents and are forced to sleep on muddy ground when it rains.
The sight of many barefoot children with adorable eyes, suffering from runny noses, was heartbreaking. These children live without access to proper education, which is crucial for securing employment in the future, yet they have no opportunities for basic education. It is astonishing how different their circumstances are based on the environment they are born into.
Through this experience, we have renewed our belief that supporting those in need should be based on the spirit of global mutual assistance. In particular, the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a major source of various raw materials essential to our daily lives, making it an international ethical responsibility to support the improvement of the lives of its people.
In light of this, Afya Management and Innovation Co., Ltd. has decided to establish a new office in Gom'a, Democratic Republic of the Congo, to further strengthen our local support efforts. This will enable us to enhance collaboration with the community and develop sustainable support activities.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all team members who worked diligently to make this visit possible. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts to respond to local needs and support those facing hardships.