How do half a million Congolese people who live in the south-central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo obtain critical medications? The answer is: through the pharmacy of the Evangelical Hospital of Vanga. This ministry of the Baptist Community of Congo (CBCO is the French acronym.) has both a history and a partnership with American Baptist International Ministries (IM).
Vanga Evangelical Hospital is one of several hospitals and more than 150 satellite clinics that receive medications and supplies like bandages and bed sheets from American Baptist churches in the U.S. and Puerto Rico through our White Cross program. The Vanga region has overwhelming medical needs and limited infrastructure, but the Vanga Pharmacy is still able to dispense healing and hope. As a result, seven more regional pharmacies have followed the Vanga Pharmacy model, helping to make Congo’s current health system one of Africa’s best.
At a recent meeting, CBCO General Secretary Pastor Ngutu announced the Vanga Centennial celebration is being planned for Sunday, August 26, 2012. He added that CBCO is pleased to invite former Congo missionaries and American Baptist church members and pastors. For more information, contact the Africa Desk at International Ministries: 1-610-768-2219, or 1-800-222-3872, ext. 2219.
Pastor Ngutu added that this would only be the beginning of several centennial celebrations. Plans are being made for events in Moanza and Kikongo in 2013.