DRC: Over 1,000 doctors take the Hippocratic Oath in Kinshasa

Kinshasa, June 1^st, 2025 (CPA).- One thousand one hundred and thirty-one (1,131) new doctors have taken the Hippocratic Oath on Saturday in Kinshasa, capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), during a solemn ceremony organised by their professional association.  ‘The National Medical Association welcomed 1,131 new doctors, who have taken the oath on Saturday May 31^st. As is our custom, this is done during a solemn ceremony, because it is legal and regulatory that all doctors must take the Hippocratic Oath before being authorised to practise medicine,’ has declared Dr Berthier Nsadi, president of the National Council of the Order of Doctors (CNOM).  He has indicated that this day has been important because the number of doctors was also significant. ‘As the Medical Association, we are as happy as a family when a baby arrives. This means that our profession is getting younger. Every time we see doctors take the oath, we rejoice,’ he has said. The president of the CNOM has reminded the new doctors that the oath was taken freely and solemnly. ‘This oath must be reread daily because it summarises the essence of your life, that is to say, the code of ethics, namely how to behave, know the prerequisites for treating patients, respect professional confidentiality and have good relationships with other healthcare professionals,’ he has emphasised. In the same vein, Dr Nsadi has announced that these new doctors who have taken the oath are now registered in the Order’s register. Following this act, they have each been assigned a registration number and are officially launched on the job market throughout the country to carry out their work, which is to treat the patients. He has congratulated the new doctors and called on them to be clean in their dress and to behave in a manner that inspires confidence. ‘In our profession, we have more duties than rights. The Medical Association is a judicial authority, just like any other. You will be judged on your medical practice and on any violations of the provisions of the code of ethics,’ has emphasised the president of the National Medical Association. The National Council of the Medical Association is a private law institution responsible for a public service mission. It ensures the ethical regulation of the medical profession. Present in all territories, the Association works closely with doctors in their practice. It provides them with ethical guidance, legal advice, support in setting up their practices, guidance in administrative procedures, and assistance in case of difficulties. ACP/