Reopening of the Health Centre in Baoro
An important return is taking shape in Baoro. After years with limited access to reliable healthcare, the initiative of the local Carmelite Fathers and cooperation with the Diocese of Bouar are making it possible to reopen a health centre. It will be named “Saint Elijah.” This will be a place where families can come for basic medical consultations, vaccinations, child nutrition support, and assistance for pregnant women.
The needs are immense: Baoro has more than 26,000 inhabitants and only two existing health facilities, both overwhelmed by the number of patients. Many people still have to travel to Bouar or even to Bangui — often dozens or even hundreds of kilometres, spending several hours on difficult and poorly maintained roads.
The new centre aims to ease this burden. In a building previously used by the Sisters, a modernised healthcare facility will be created, with an independent entrance, a small laboratory, and a space dedicated to the nutrition programme for children. Care will be provided by a trained local team, including a nurse and Aristide Tegnoloma, a qualified nurse and young Discalced Carmelite.
The project also includes an important awareness-raising component: malaria prevention, support for pregnant women, combating malnutrition, and follow-up for people living with epilepsy or diabetes. The goal is to ensure that the people of Baoro no longer need to travel long distances for essential medical care and to help reduce maternal and child mortality.
Rehabilitation work has already begun. The site is being cleared, the building is being prepared according to the recommendations of the local doctor, and new sanitary facilities and staff areas are being installed. At the same time, a latrine, a medical waste disposal facility, and other essential infrastructure are under construction to ensure a safe and dignified opening. If everything goes according to plan, the centre will be officially inaugurated on 11 February 2026, on the occasion of the World Day of the Sick.
The project is supported by SIRIRI in 2025 with a contribution of 4,000 euros.