Humanitarian constraints in eastern DRC to provide aid to war-displaced people
The humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to deteriorate, hampering humanitarian actions to help people displaced by armed conflict. This was emphasized by Bruno Lemarquis, humanitarian coordinator in the DRC, during a recent visit to Kinshasa.
Access to affected areas remains one of the main constraints faced by humanitarian organisations. Difficulties in accessing certain areas, particularly around Goma, make it difficult to deliver the aid needed by displaced people.
Bruno Lemarquis also raised the issue of the protection of civilians, which is seriously compromised due to the resurgence of armed conflicts. Conflict-related sexual violence is also on a worrying rise, requiring special attention from humanitarian actors.
Among the other topics discussed during the meeting between Bruno Lemarquis and Jean-Pierre Bemba, Minister of National Defense, is the violent extremism of the ADF rebels. MONUSCO and the UN are working with Congolese institutions to counter this threat.
The Demobilization, Disarmament, Reintegration and Community Reintegration Program for former combatants (PDDRC-S) was also discussed during this meeting. This is a program aimed at reintegrating former combatants into civil society after their disarmament.
Faced with these humanitarian challenges, it is crucial to strengthen coordination between local actors, international organizations and the Congolese authorities. It is also essential to mobilize the necessary resources to respond effectively to the needs of affected populations.
Eastern DRC continues to face urgent humanitarian needs and it is important to continue efforts to bring life-saving assistance to these vulnerable communities. The situation requires constant attention and collective action to alleviate suffering and promote stability in the region