Title: “The humanitarian crisis of those displaced by the Mbole-Lengola conflict: a food emergency to be resolved”
Introduction :
The Tshopo province in the Democratic Republic of Congo is currently the scene of conflict between the Mbole and Lengola communities, leading to the displacement of many people. Unfortunately, these displaced people now find themselves faced with an alarming situation: lack of food. The consequences are disastrous, particularly for children who are affected by malnutrition and some of whom have died. Faced with this humanitarian crisis, coordinated efforts are needed to provide food aid and find urgent solutions.
Displaced people living in precarious conditions:
Those displaced by the Mbole-Lengola conflict find themselves in accommodation sites such as Kongakonga, Ste Marthe parish and Lukusa camp. However, these sites face a severe lack of food. The consequences are multiple and devastating. The displaced are forced to beg for food from local residents, which is not an ideal situation. In addition, children are particularly vulnerable and are affected by malnutrition, which has already led to several deaths. Finally, the situation of food shortage can push some women to engage in dangerous activities, such as prostitution, in order to survive.
A meeting to find urgent solutions:
Faced with this critical situation, a meeting was organized in Kisangani on September 31 between the provincial Minister of Health, sector partners and humanitarian organizations. The objective was to find rapid and effective solutions to help the displaced. The provincial Minister of Humanitarian Affairs requested the support of technical and financial partners as well as the government to provide a response to this food emergency.
Coordination of efforts for effective intervention:
Humanitarian partners are mobilizing to provide a coordinated response to this crisis. WHO has already set up tents and is distributing medicines, while other agencies are working to position themselves to respond. Assessments have been carried out to better understand the needs of the displaced and a response plan is already in place. However, it is essential to consider sustainable solutions in the area of food security, involving all relevant stakeholders.
Conclusion :
The humanitarian crisis of those displaced by the Mbole-Lengola conflict in the Tshopo province requires rapid and concerted action. The lack of food and the resulting dramatic consequences, particularly for children, require urgent intervention to prevent further victims.. The coordinated efforts of humanitarian partners and the government are essential to provide adequate and sustainable food assistance. It is time to mobilize all available resources to resolve this crisis and enable the displaced to find dignified living conditions.