The news in the Democratic Republic of Congo is marked by the occurrence of serious floods in the territory of Kalehe, in South Kivu. Since Thursday, May 4, torrential rains have caused the death of nearly 450 people, leaving residents in distress, fear and precariousness. Several urgent actions were identified, including access to water, hygiene services, health, shelter, household items, food security and child protection. In a desire to help the victims, Monusco allocated a sum of 3 million US dollars from the humanitarian fund and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) also came to lend a hand.
In a humanitarian emergency, MSF teams evacuated 41 seriously injured people to Bukavu for appropriate medical treatment. In addition to financial aid from Monusco, MSF and several other non-governmental organizations came to provide assistance. The needs for water, food, shelter, and household items remain top priorities for residents of Kalehe. The humanitarian, social and psychological situation of the victims remains worrying.
The DRC has renewed its confidence in the Community of East African States, despite the security challenges in the Great Lakes region. Critics have been leveled at the ineffectiveness of the EAC regional force in ensuring security in the east of the country. A tense situation is indeed observed in the province of Kwango, where 11 people died in clashes between the Fardc and the Mobondo militia.
However, positive actions have been taken to resolve certain problems. The DRC has recently begun negotiations for the repatriation of Congolese refugees settled in Rwanda and the Sadc has deployed a regional force to restore peace and security in the east of the country.
In sum, these current events in the DRC continue to highlight the need for humanitarian assistance and durable solutions to ensure the long-term safety of Congolese residents.