In a small hospital in Ambovombe, South Madagascar, I am a gynecologist and obstetrician supporting the health needs of the local population. In doing so, I face ups and downs but my motivation to volunteer is not hampered by challenges abound. I am a UN Volunteer Reproductive Health Expert with the United Nations Populations Fund (UNFPA) and this is my story.
My name is Sadoscar Hakizimana. I am from Burundi.
I am a medical doctor by profession.
I started my volunteer assignment roughly two years ago — in August 2022.
Ambovombe, where I am based, is at the southern tip of Madagascar. There are not enough skilled healthcare providers, the equipment is outdated, and access to sexual and reproductive health services is limited. This is especially tough in referral hospitals where maternal health, family planning, and treatment for sexually transmitted infections are crucial but often not available.
Many people in rural Madagascar struggle to get basic healthcare.
The infrastructure is underdeveloped — roads are in poor condition.
There simply aren't enough healthcare facilities. The consequence of which is high maternal and child mortality rates. Many women and children suffer because they can't get the care they need during pregnancy and childbirth. Malnutrition among children is also a big problem, causing various health issues.
The shortage of trained healthcare professionals makes it even harder to provide essential services. I need to act fast in this adversity.
Since October 2022, I have performed nearly 80 life-saving surgeries and cesarean operations — preventing 12 potential maternal deaths and saving the lives of 14 newborns.
A lot of what I do extends beyond surgeries.
I train local health professionals through workshops, training modules, and mentoring new healthcare providers. So far, 60 health providers have been trained in emergency obstetrics, neonatal care, and the Minimum Initial Services Package for Sexual and Reproductive Health in humanitarian contexts. The trainings took place in four district hospitals in southern regions, enhancing the skills of doctors and midwives. Along with this, I give technical support to the reproductive health programmes in southern Madagascar, which is greatly appreciated by the local medical staff — it helps them achieve their healthcare goals, they say.
The UNFPA Deputy Representative in Madagascar, Ngoy Kishimba also commended my service in improving local healthcare.
Whatever I do cannot be successful without strong monitoring and evaluation systems. By tracking progress and measuring the efficiency of healthcare programmes, we can make sure that interventions lead to better patient outcomes.
My volunteer journey is one of motivation — being able to do something for people, and being here on the ground.
I believe in the value of human life — in hope and compassion — in volunteering to bring about a positive change.
Deep within the human being, there is a precious treasure. Its fragrance is felt when you save a life.
Dr. Sadoscar Hakizimana (first from right) UN Volunteer Reproductive Health Expert with UNFPA during a multi-sectoral assessment in Tsishombe District in South Madagascar. @ UNFPA, 2022.