2023-08-25
The consequences of the crisis in eastern DRC continue to be felt, with an increasing number of displaced people. According to a report by the International Organization for Migration (IOM) dated July 2023, it is estimated that more than 600,000 people have been displaced, mainly in the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu. The crisis was caused by the actions of the rebel group M23.
Displaced people are in different reception situations, ranging from host families and spontaneous sites to collective centers and planned sites. However, despite these measures, the situation remains worrying. New waves of violence were reported between June and mid-July 2023, with attacks by the M23 group in several regions.
The territory most affected by this crisis is that of Masisi, in the province of North Kivu, which is home to 30% of the displaced people. The territories of Lubero and Rutshuru follow with 18% each, while the territory of Nyiragongo and the city of Goma host respectively 17% and 11% of the displaced. The territory of Walikale registers 1% of the displaced.
The needs of the displaced are multiple, ranging from access to food and shelter to drinking water, hygiene and health care. Faced with this situation, the European Union launched a humanitarian operation aimed at bringing essential supplies to the city of Goma. This initiative follows a previous operation which brought in 260 tons of supplies in a few months.
However, the humanitarian crisis in the DRC is not limited to the situation of the displaced. Violence and insecurity also hamper income-generating activities and disrupt agriculture, leading to food insecurity for millions of people. In addition, many children suffer from acute malnutrition.
Despite the challenges posed by insecurity and limited access to some areas, IOM and its partners continue to provide emergency assistance to those affected by the violence. They pledge to support the Congolese people by putting in place crisis response plans.
Faced with the complexity of the political, humanitarian and economic crises in the DRC, IOM is stepping up its operations in the country in order to respond more effectively to the humanitarian emergency. This requires enhanced coordination and additional resources to deal with the situation.
In conclusion, the crisis in eastern DRC continues to have a devastating impact on the population. Humanitarian efforts must be strengthened to meet the needs of displaced people and support communities affected by violence