The women of Congo have had it rough. Their country has been at war for decades, many of them have seen their families and even their bodies badly damaged and torn apart. There’s no shortage of sad stories coming out of the DRC, and from an outsider’s perspective, it’s hard to find cause for hope.
Panzi Hospital was constructed in 1999, and since then has become famous worldwide for it’s treatment of tens of thousands of sexual violence victims in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Its staff specialize in treating gynecological disorders, specifically those due to reproductive trauma and trauma from sexual violence, also offering clinical physical treatment and psychological counseling for survivors. Dr. Denis Mukwege is the co-founder and medical director of the hospital, but also a tireless advocate for the survivors he treats. Women come through Panzi’s programs strengthened, empowered, and ready to provide for themselves, their families, and to make a positive difference in their communities.
Read the full story from the Institute for Pubic Health: Documentary Features Congolese Hospital Success