New humanitarian aid airlift to Goma: The European Union is stepping up its intervention in eastern DRC
In an official statement released on Wednesday 23 August, the European Union announced the establishment of a new airlift for humanitarian aid to the city of Goma, located in the province of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of congo. This initiative aims to strengthen the humanitarian response in a region where the already dire situation continues to deteriorate.
The first flights carrying 180 tonnes of food and non-food items landed in Goma on Tuesday 22 August. This is a major action valued at 80 million euros for this year, and a total of eight flights are planned until the end of August 2023.
This new humanitarian airlift to eastern DRC follows a similar operation that took place between March and May 2023, during which 260 tonnes of food and non-food items were delivered in seven flights. This time, the European Union, in collaboration with France and other humanitarian partners, is mobilizing to meet the needs of displaced people in the region.
Eastern DRC is marked by armed conflicts and massive population displacements. According to the European Union, the number of displaced people is constantly changing due to clashes between different forces. Nearly 500,000 people are currently in and around Goma, living in extremely precarious conditions.
These vulnerable populations have significant needs in terms of food, water, sanitation, health care and shelter. The new humanitarian aid airlift therefore aims to support the efforts already deployed to meet these urgent needs and contribute to alleviating the suffering of the populations affected by the crisis.
This European Union initiative demonstrates the importance of international solidarity and the mobilization of resources to deal with humanitarian emergencies. It also bears witness to the commitment of the international community to support vulnerable populations and to take action to improve living conditions in regions affected by conflict.
In conclusion, the new airlift for humanitarian aid to Goma represents a beacon of hope for the displaced populations of eastern DRC. Thanks to this initiative, the European Union is stepping up its intervention in the region and providing essential aid to meet the urgent needs of the populations affected by the crisis. There is a need to continue mobilizing resources and supporting humanitarian efforts to ensure a better future for these suffering communities