Kinshasa’s Information Platform to Accelerate Modern Contraceptive Use

Jane Bertrand, Tulane University
Pierre Akilimali, Université de Kinshasa
Saleh Babazadeh, Tulane University
Arsene Binanga, Tulane University
Nelly Dikamba, Université de Kinshasa
Julie Hernandez, Tulane University
Patrick Kayembe, Université de Kinshasa
Linnea Perry, Tulane University

The DRC is the largest francophone country in sub-Saharan Africa, with a TRF of 6.6. Interest is keen within the current government and international donors to increase modern contraceptive prevalence, currently 7.8% (2013). But how? Since 2012 Kinshasa has developed one of the most advanced information platforms in sub-Saharan Africa for programmatic planning. Surveys in 2012 and 2013 used smartphones and open-source GIS to map the distribution of health facilities providing contraception in Kinshasa and identified underserved neighborhoods within 35 health zones. The 393 structures offering contraception have an average of 3.6 methods in stock: (in descending order) condoms, injectables, pills, IUDs, cycle beads, and implants. However, 11.2% did not have a staff trained in FP; and 17.6% did not have a basic information system. PMA2020 surveys have shown a promising upward trend in modern contraceptive use from 14.2% (DHS 2007) to 18.2% (late 2013) and 21.8% (mid 2014).