Although existing for many years, the Polyclinic Afia became a nonprofit organization in 1998. This medical facility provides care to both Salesians and members of other congregations as well as the general public. The Salesians of Don Bosco are still heavily involved in the management of the Association, which remains a Salesian work, both in spirit and in its operation. The Internal Rules of the Polyclinic provides that Afia remains a “Catholic” institution, while respecting the religious views of staff and patients. According to its statutes, the Polyclinic heals any patient regardless of race, religion or political opinion.
From 1998, the Polyclinic was enlarged, allowing improved performance of the structure. Polyclinic Afia currently provides one of the best structures of care in Lubumbashi. Afia has approximately 125 beds, with a high occupancy rate. Seven doctors are employed full time alongside sixty nurses and ten paramedical personel (laboratory, pharmacy, radiology). Afia is one of the few (if not only) medical facility in town to perform laparoscopic surgery. Many medical services are provided, including cardiology and gastroenterology.
At the Bakanja Centre during the weekend or other holidays, the following tasks can possibly be done: