In this strategically important mining province, the nickname "Queen of Lualaba" underscores her political influence and governance style. Having assumed the presidency after serving as interim governor and then consolidating her authority, Fifi Masuka has established herself as one of the most influential women on the provincial political scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Her leadership was particularly evident in the management of a province rich in mineral resources, of which Kolwezi is the capital. In April 2024, she became the first woman elected governor of Lualaba, thus consecrating her political rise and strengthening her legitimacy at the head of this key province of the Congolese economy.

Her supporters highlight several of her actions: infrastructure modernization, health projects, social programs, and efforts to improve the province's image and administration. In the health sector, her provincial government has supported the construction and rehabilitation of hospitals, equipped certain medical facilities, and strengthened services for mothers and children. This visibility and these initiatives explain why some media outlets and residents symbolically refer to her as a "queen," an expression that reflects her popularity and political influence more than any official title.

A political riseoutstanding

Having taken the helm of the province in a complex context, Fifi Masuka gradually consolidated her authority. In a region of strategic importance to the economy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, home to some of the world's largest copper and cobalt mines, governing demands both political skill and managerial ability. Over the years, she has established herself as one of the most influential women in Congolese politics.

INFRASTRUCTURESENHANCED SANITARY FACILITIES

Faced with rapid population growth, the governor has made health a priority. Several initiatives have been launched:

·         Modernization of hospitals: The Mwangeji General Referral Hospital in Kolwezi has seen its technical facilities improved, its emergency services strengthened and its specialized units modernized.

·         Rehabilitation of health centers: Many existing centers have been renovated to improve maternity wards, consultation rooms and patient reception.

·         New community centers: The construction of frontline structures aims to relieve pressure on large hospitals and bring care closer to rural and peri-urban populations.

FREE MATERNITY CARE: APILLAR OF HEALTH POLICY IN LUALABA

In Lualaba province, Governor Fifi Masuka Saini has also made maternal health one of her priorities. In this context, she announced the implementation of a free childbirth and newborn care program, an initiative that aligns with the national Universal Health Coverage policy in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Protecting mothersand newborns

This program aims to reduce the financial barriers that still prevent many women from giving birth in medical facilities. Specifically, it covers several essential services: prenatal consultations, hospital delivery, immediate newborn care, and certain emergency obstetric interventions. By eliminating these costs, the authorities hope to encourage more women to go to health centers, thereby helping to reduce the risks of maternal and neonatal complications and deaths.

A major issuepublic health

In the Democratic Republic of Congo, maternal and infant mortality remains a significant challenge for the health system. Limited access to care, the distances between villages and health facilities, and medical costs still pose barriers for many families. The implementation of free maternity care in Lualaba is therefore part of a broader strategy aimed at improving women's health, strengthening the protection of newborns, and progressing towards more equitable health coverage.

Towards a systemmore inclusive healthcare

If this policy is properly funded and accompanied by increased infrastructure and medical staffing, it could help transform access to maternal care in the province. It also sends a strong signal of the provincial authorities' commitment to placing public health at the heart of development.

STAFF SUPPORTMEDICAL AND TRAINING

Aware that infrastructure alone is not enough, the governor also supported medical staff by awarding bonuses to doctors and health professionals to improve motivation and working conditions, and by developing the University of Kolwezi and its medical school to train more local health professionals and meet the growing needs of the province.

RESPONDING TO GROWTHFROM THE PROVINCE

With the economic boom in Lualaba, the population of Kolwezi and the mining areas continues to grow. This dynamic puts significant pressure on social services, particularly the healthcare system. To address this, provincial authorities are focusing on modernizing hospitals, rehabilitating existing centers, and constructing new facilities. The goal is to anticipate increasing needs and build a stronger healthcare system better suited to the province's population.

A DEFI ofLONG TERME

Despite these advances, numerous challenges remain: a shortage of specialized personnel, limited funding for the healthcare system, and difficulties accessing care in some remote areas. Nevertheless, the efforts undertaken represent an important step toward improving healthcare coverage in the province. Through these initiatives, Fifi Masuka Saini is implementing a comprehensive strategy combining infrastructure strengthening, prevention, staff support, and training. Her work reflects a strong commitment to building a more robust and accessible healthcare system for all in Lualaba Province.

FAITH AND COMMITMENT TO SERVICEFROM HEALTH TO LUALABA

Fifi Masuka Saini, governor of Lualaba and the only woman among the 26 governors of the Democratic Republic of Congo, was received in audience by Pope Francis at the Vatican last year, shortly before her death. A devout Catholic from a humble background, she described this meeting as a blessing for her family, her province, and her country. Close to her people, Fifi Masuka grounded her political commitment in a strong and active faith, particularly through social and health initiatives in Lualaba, where she supported healthcare facilities and improved access to care for the most vulnerable.