Dr. Jacques Sebisaho and Amani Global Works

Dr. Jacques Sebisaho and Amani Global Works

Dr. Jacques Sebisaho, a physician, researcher, and humanitarian from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is the driving force behind Amani Global Works (AGW), a non-profit organization committed to providing health care to the most underserved populations in the DRC. Through his leadership and vision, Dr. Sebisaho has transformed AGW into a beacon of hope for those living on the remote island of Idjwi, located in Lake Kivu between the DRC and Rwanda, one of the most isolated regions in Central Africa.

Born and raised in the DRC, Dr. Sebisaho witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of inadequate health as, when he was only six years old, his sister Yvonne died of cholera within six hours of becoming sick. This experience deeply influenced his decision to pursue a career in medicine. After completing his medical education in Africa and further studies in the United States, Dr. Sebisaho became a dedicated advocate for health equity, with a particular focus on regions suffering from conflict, poverty, and isolation.

Dr Jacques SebisahoAmani Globsl Works 

Amani Global Works

In 2010, Dr. Sebisaho co-founded Amani Global Works with the goal of changing this reality. The word “Amani” means “peace” in Swahili, and AGW’s mission reflects this ideal: to bring peace and healing to the people of Idjwi by providing quality, sustainable health care. AGW’s model is built on the belief that health care is a human right, and that even the most isolated communities deserve access to lifesaving medical services.

Idjwi, like much of the DRC, has been severely impacted by preventable diseases, malnutrition, and maternal and child mortality. Before AGW's intervention, the island had no hospitals and very few health workers. Many women would give birth without medical assistance, and diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and malnutrition were rampant.

AGW’s first major achievement was constructing the first and only hospital on Idjwi: the Amani Hospital. Since its opening, the hospital has served tens of thousands of patients, providing services such as maternal and child care, vaccinations, emergency surgeries, and treatment for infectious diseases. The hospital also works to address malnutrition, which is a major problem on the island, particularly among children.

One of the hallmarks of Dr. Sebisaho’s work is his commitment to a community-centered approach. Rather than imposing external solutions, AGW works closely with local leaders and the population of Idjwi to ensure that the health services provided are culturally sensitive, relevant, and sustainable. The organization prioritizes hiring local health workers, ensuring that medical staff understand the unique needs and challenges of the community they serve.

Education is another cornerstone of AGW’s approach. The organization provides health education to Idjwi residents, teaching them about disease prevention, hygiene, and nutrition. By empowering the local population with knowledge, AGW aims to reduce the incidence of preventable diseases and improve overall health outcomes on the island.

One of AGW’s key areas of focus is maternal and child health, a critical issue in the DRC where maternal mortality rates are among the highest in the world. Through AGW’s programs, pregnant women on Idjwi now have access to prenatal care, skilled birth attendants, and emergency obstetric services. As a result, maternal and infant mortality rates on the island have significantly decreased since the organization began its work.

AGW also runs vaccination campaigns and provides nutritional support for children, helping to address the high rates of child malnutrition and preventable diseases such as measles and polio. The organization's emphasis on preventive care is key to creating lasting change in a region where access to health services remains limited.

Despite its successes, AGW faces many challenges. The DRC’s ongoing political instability, economic difficulties, and the geographic isolation of Idjwi continue to present obstacles to delivering health care on the island. Additionally, securing sustainable funding for AGW’s programs is an ongoing struggle, as the organization relies heavily on donations and grants to support its operations.

Nevertheless, Dr. Sebisaho remains optimistic about the future. He envisions expanding AGW’s services beyond Idjwi, reaching other under served areas of the DRC and beyond. His ultimate goal is to create a model of health care delivery that can be replicated in other remote and resource-poor regions worldwide.

Dr. Sebisaho’s work with AGW has garnered international recognition. He has been featured in global health forums, and AGW has developed partnerships with other non-governmental organizations, governments, and academic institutions. These partnerships have been essential in providing technical expertise, funding, and support for AGW’s programs. In recognition of his contributions to global health, Dr. Sebisaho has received several awards and honors. His tireless advocacy for health equity has made him a respected figure in the international medical community.

Island of Hope is a finalist at the 20th MY HERO Film Festival

Watch this short film, directed by E. M. Mwangi and Hillary Bachelder, Island of Hope. The film explores how Dr Jacques Sebisaho fulfils a childhood promise by spearheading the transformation of the local healthcare system. Motivated by this personal tragedy, he, along with his wife Mimy Mudekereza and the resilient community of Idjwi, established Amani Global Works. Through a network of trained Community Health Workers and clinics, they bring newfound hope and life-saving healthcare to the island's forgotten inhabitants. Now, their impactful work is spreading beyond the island to reshape healthcare on the mainland.

For More Information go to: Amani Global Works