In its effort to bring healthcare closer to the most vulnerable populations, the Service Yezu Mwiza (SYM) has implemented the strategy of a Mobile Clinic, an innovative and solidarity-based initiative that delivers health services directly to the heart of communities.

Responding to the needs of remote communities
Many people, especially in rural or peri-urban areas, still face significant difficulties accessing healthcare: distance from health facilities, lack of financial means, stigma, or lack of information. The Service Yezu Mwiza Mobile clinic aims to reduce these barriers by reaching populations where they are.

Integrated and accessible health services
Through the Mobile Clinic, Service Yezu Mwiza provides essential services, including:

• General medical consultations
• Screening and support for people living with HIV and AIDS
• Awareness-raising on mental health and psychosocial well-being
• Referral and guidance to appropriate care facilities
• Health education and disease prevention

These services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals and dedicated psychosocial workers.

Introducing cervical cancer screening
As part of strengthening its services this year, the Service Yezu Mwiza Mobile Clinic now includes cervical cancer screening for its beneficiaries. This new component aims to promote women’s health through early detection, awareness, and timely referral to appropriate care.

Through this initiative, the Service Yezu Mwiza actively contributes to the fight against a cancer that is preventable when diagnosed early, while bringing this vital service closer to women with limited access to screening facilities.

A human and community-centered approach
The the Service Yezu Mwiza Mobile Clinic goes beyond medical care. It adopts a holistic, human, and community-centered approach based on listening, respect for dignity, and proximity to beneficiaries. It also helps build trust between communities and health services while combating stigma associated with certain illnesses, particularly HIV and AIDS, and other vulnerable situations.

Commitment to health for all
Through this initiative, the Service Yezu Mwiza reaffirms its commitment to promoting accessible, inclusive, and equitable healthcare, in line with its mission to promote the holistic health of the population through comprehensive care for HIV and AIDS, TB/HIV co-infection, malaria prevention, reproductive health promotion, responsible parenting, and care for chronic illnesses, with a preferential option for the most needy.

The Mobile Clinic thus remains a key tool for reaching forgotten populations and building healthier, more supportive communities together.

Challenges and needs of the Mobile Clinic
Despite its positive impact within communities,the Service Yezu Mwiza Mobile Clinic faces significant challenges, particularly in terms of equipment and logistics. Currently, the initiative relies on a single vehicle, limiting geographic coverage and the frequency of interventions. Logistical constraints related to transporting staff, medical equipment, and necessary supplies also hinder the expansion of activities. In response to these challenges, the Service Yezu Mwiza calls for technical, material, or financial support to strengthen the Mobile Clinic and expand its reach to benefit a greater number of vulnerable communities.

By, Communications,

Service Yezu Mwiza, Burundi.