Abortion Access for All

With a presence in over 20 countries, Ipas works to make abortion care accessible, even to those in regions affected by conflict. The support of donors like you makes this work possible. Just one example of this life-changing work, made possible with your partnership, is being done by Dr. Celestine Buyibuyi. 

In the conflict-ridden region of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), access to quality healthcare is limited, particularly for women and girls. For many, healthcare is beyond reach due to violence, displacement, and the destruction of health facilities. Dr. Celestine Buyibuyi, a doctor working as Ipas’s community engagement advisor in East DRC, is committed to changing this reality. Every day, she leads efforts to provide life-saving sexual and reproductive health services (SRH) to women affected by the ongoing conflict. 

Working in North Kivu, one of the most volatile provinces in the DRC, Dr. Buyibuyi and her team ensure that women and girls, especially survivors of sexual violence, can access essential services, including safe abortion and post-abortion care. These services are vital for women in conflict zones, where the risk of sexual violence is extremely high and unplanned pregnancies often result from rape. 

Dr. Buyibuyi's typical day begins with providing clinical care at the camp for displaced persons. She treats survivors of sexual violence and patients with complications from unsafe abortions—working to restore their health and dignity. In a region where stigma around abortion is strong, her compassionate approach helps reduce fear and shame, empowering women to seek the care they need. 

Dr. Buyibuyi also partners with local community groups, including women’s organizations, to raise awareness about reproductive health. Through these partnerships, she works to break down cultural and legal barriers that prevent women from accessing care. These grassroots efforts are crucial to making SRH services more accessible, especially for vulnerable women. 

Despite the challenges of working in a conflict zone, Dr. Buyibuyi remains driven by the belief that every woman has the right to make decisions about her body. Her work transforms lives, one patient at a time, and contributes to broader efforts to improve reproductive health across DRC.

Thank you for your belief not only in Ipas but also in people like Dr. Buyibuyi. Due to your generosity, our healthcare teams can continue their mission to restore dignity, empower survivors, and provide compassionate care to the most vulnerable. Your partnership is transforming lives and bringing hope where it’s needed most.