PURPOSE:
This presentation will discuss a transnational research collaboration between Karolinska Institutet, Sweden and la Société Congolaise de la Pratique Sage-Femme (SCOSAF) and IPAS-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The project’s first aim was to evaluate the impact of the ratification of the Maputo Protocol in DRC particularly, the role of midwives who can now provide the full extent of comprehensive safe abortion care. Our second aim was to strengthen the research capacity of SCOSAF, with special attention to organizational capacity and gender equity. Overall we aimed to position SCOSAF as a key leader in improving access abortion care, and ultimately, supporting the country’s goals for improved sexual and reproductive health, decreased maternal mortality and ultimately achieving sustainable development (SDGs).

DISCUSSION:
Our approach was intersectional, decolonial and equitable. Training and mentorship in research management, coordination and process was tailored and continuous to meet the team’s needs. Challenges due to unforeseen changes within SCOSAF, were met with continuous adaptation, and targeted support in research management.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
Midwives involved in the project, alongside SCOSAF, have published two peer-reviewed studies, and were able to advance their professional research careers outside of traditional, difficult-to-access academic pathways. SCOSAF strengthened its organizational capacity to conduct future studies along with research mobilization (policy brief), build official partnerships with IPAS-DRC and expand their advocacy efforts.

KEY MESSAGE:
Co-collaborating in research with midwives’ associations, while centering research capacity building can enable them to sustainably contribute to health system transformation within the context of the midwifery model of care. In parallel, it can advance research in non-academic settings creating equitable research pathways for more midwives. Our experiences contributed to expanding the visibility, legitimacy, and integration of the midwifery model of abortion care, while positioning midwives’ associations as central actors in transforming reproductive health services and advancing SDGs in DRC. Education - student experience 2