Médecins sans frontières (MSF) announced on May 18, in a communiqué, its withdrawal from the maternity ward of the Centre hospitalier universitaire communautaire (CHUC) in Bangui. This significant decision follows four years of intensive collaboration with the CHUC and marks the formal conclusion of a partnership project with the Central African Ministry of Health. MSF confirmed that the progressive withdrawal from the CHUC maternity ward will commence on June 1st. The organization anticipates the full withdrawal process to be completed by August 2026, allowing for a structured and responsible handover of services. This planned disengagement represents a strategic shift in MSF's operational focus within the country.
Impact of MSF's Support
Médecins sans frontières' (MSF) cooperation significantly improved care for women and newborns at the Centre hospitalier universitaire communautaire (CHUC) in Bangui, primarily through extensive infrastructure rehabilitation. During its four-year presence, MSF established and equipped a dedicated neonatology service at the CHUC, a key development for infant care in the region. The organization also supplied essential medical equipment and consumables for the maternity ward, ensuring that healthcare professionals had the necessary tools to provide quality care. This full support aimed to strengthen the capacity of the local health system.
Over the four-year partnership, more than 32,000 patients benefited directly from MSF's care and medical backing, noting the extensive reach of their intervention. The newly established neonatology service alone provided specialized care for approximately 6,000 newborns, addressing a critical need for vulnerable infants. MSF's involvement also contributed to nearly 18,000 deliveries at the facility, supporting mothers through a vital stage of their lives. Around 7,000 surgical interventions were performed with the support of MSF, demonstrating the breadth of services enhanced by the organization's presence. These statistics show the profound impact MSF had on maternal and neonatal health outcomes at the CHUC.
Continued Operations in CAR
Médecins sans frontières (MSF) confirmed it will continue its activities in the Central African Republic despite the withdrawal from the Bangui maternity ward. This decision reflects MSF's ongoing commitment to the country's healthcare system beyond this specific project. The organization plans to maintain its support for the internal medicine department at the Centre hospitalier universitaire communautaire (CHUC), ensuring continuity of care in another vital area. MSF will also continue to provide logistical support to several health facilities across the country, reinforcing the operational capabilities of local healthcare providers. The international medical humanitarian organization has maintained a continuous presence in the Central African Republic since 1997, marking a long-standing commitment to the nation's healthcare needs. The continued operations show MSF's broader engagement and dedication to addressing various health challenges throughout the Central African Republic.
Context and Future
Médecins sans frontières (MSF) has operated in the Central African Republic (République centrafricaine) since 1997, demonstrating a long-term commitment to the nation's health sector that spans over two decades. The recent decision to withdraw from the maternity ward at the Centre hospitalier universitaire communautaire (CHUC) in Bangui, after a four-year partnership, represents a specific adjustment to its operational strategy rather than a complete departure from the country. MSF confirmed it will maintain its support for the internal medicine department at the CHUC, ensuring that its expertise and resources continue to benefit patients in other critical areas. The organization also plans to continue providing logistical assistance to various health facilities across the country, a key element for the effective functioning of healthcare services in remote and underserved areas. MSF's progressive withdrawal from the CHUC maternity ward is scheduled to begin on June 1st, with full completion anticipated by August 2026. This strategic shift allows MSF to reallocate resources to other pressing health needs while maintaining a broader presence and commitment to the Central African Republic's population.
