Kaga Bandoro – Marguerite Mallo Bagaza, affectionately known as Mama Maguy, is the only state midwife in the Nana Grébizi health district, in the central-north region of the Central African Republic (CAR).

An unsung heroine, 55-year-old Mama Maguy is a frontline worker at Kaga Bandoro General Hospital. Along with supporting pregnant women, including during childbirth, she has another string to her bow: Dressing the wounds of survivors of sexual violence. Rape is commonly used as a weapon of war in the district by groups in conflict, with many of these cases unfortunately going unreported.

According to statistics gathered by the early warning system of the CAR’s Ministry of Health, with support from World Health Organisation (WHO) in the African Region, 243 cases of rape were recorded and treated at Mama Maguy’s hospital in 2023. These included two men.

Maman Maguy's work comprises not only medical care, but also psychosocial support for the survivors, for which she has undergone regular WHO training since 2018. She also refers survivors to legal protection and economic support structures, as required.

"Victims are often reluctant to come forward or even to ask for help," admits Mama Maguy. "I go into communities discreetly to persuade them to seek treatment, and often manage to convince them. »

Her commitment, wealth of experience and know-how makes her a comforting shoulder to cry on for people whose dignity has been deeply impacted by the trauma.

Dr Ngoy Nsenga, WHO Representative in the Central African Republic, says it is heartening to see how the training opportunities offered by WHO are improving care for those who need it most. "We remain fully committed to supporting the Ministry of Health to ensure that people enjoy access to essential health care in what are often very difficult situations," he adds.

Mama Maguy agreed to work in the Nana Grébizi health district, which has an estimated population of 239 162, despite the insecurity. "We live in perpetual insecurity in Kaga Bandoro. But if I don't put my expertise at the service of these people who have suffered rape, I'm helping to reinforce this insecurity," she says. 

It's a difficult job, full of hurdles, and one that demands a great deal of effort and self-sacrifice from Mama Maguy. "The animosity of the survivors, the horrible things we see, the impunity and insecurity in the area are all challenges we have to face, » she says. "Seeing a smile on the faces of these people, who had lost all hope, encourages me and makes me proud. That is my greatest satisfaction. »

With many thanks to Marguerite for sharing her story.