The Sodefor Referral Hospital in Nioki: a concrete commitment to newborn health

Nioki, 18 – 20 septembre 2025

As part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, SODEFOR provides the Congolese population with a General Reference Hospital located in Nioki, in close partnership with the local Health Zone. This care centre welcomes nearly 26,000 patients from all regions of the country every year.

A memorable visit: Dr. Patrick Peeters

The hospital recently had the honor of welcoming Dr. Patrick Peeters, a Belgian pediatrician recognized for his commitment to Africa and his innovative pedagogical approach. Since his beginnings in tropical medicine in 1973, he has led numerous humanitarian missions, notably with Médecins Sans Vacances, of which he became president.

His career has been marked by concrete actions: the creation of working groups between paediatricians, the structuring of medical protocols adapted to African realities, and the development of educational content for partner hospitals. Thanks to her work, 75 paediatric protocols have been developed from the WHO's "Little Blue Book", facilitating the care of children in resource-limited settings.

Vital training: Neonatal Resuscitation

Under the guidance of Dr. Peeters, an intensive two-day training was organized in Nioki to strengthen the skills of medical staff in the management of life-threatening newborn emergencies.

Training content

The training took place in two phases:

1. Theory: interactive presentations, case studies and discussions to lay the groundwork.
2. Practical: simulations in the maternity ward with mannequins and medical equipment to apply resuscitation procedures.

Themes

1. Respiratory and neurological emergencies: asphyxia, convulsions, coma
2. Intensive care: oxygen therapy, mask ventilation, safety position
3. Emergency medications: glucose, diazepam, phenobarbital

An impact aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals

This SODEFOR initiative is fully in line with Sustainable Development Goal n°3: Health and well-being. Participants praised the relevance of the training, which boosted their confidence and ability to respond effectively to critical situations. The practice also highlighted the importance of communication and teamwork in neonatal care.

SODEFOR once again demonstrates its legendary commitment to the well-being of the people of Mai-Ndombe and beyond. True to its CSR vision, it continues to take concrete actions that save lives, strengthen local skills and contribute sustainably to the improvement of the Congolese health system.

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