Current events in the Democratic Republic of Congo are marked by the intensification of violence in the eastern part of the country. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) recently published a statement deploring the armed clashes in Sake, North Kivu, and their impact on civilian populations.
The clashes of February 7 between the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and the March 23 Movement (M23) led to the influx of 58 people injured by weapons, including 31 civilians, to the CBCA Ndosho hospital in Goma. This influx doubled the maximum reception capacity of the wounded service supported by the Red Cross.
The International Committee of the Red Cross emphasizes that this increasing violence endangers civilian populations and health structures in the region. Weapon-wounded people are arriving in large numbers and medical facilities are overwhelmed. Reception capacities are largely exceeded and medical resources are limited.
The ICRC recalls the importance of protecting civilians according to international humanitarian law. Precautions must be taken to minimize civilian casualties and damage to civilian property. Medical facilities, ambulances and health personnel must also be respected and protected.
Difficulties in humanitarian access further complicate the situation. The delivery of aid, particularly medical supplies, to landlocked areas is hampered or even made impossible by the fighting. Populations affected by the conflict are distraught and often deprived of access to healthcare.
Ensuring secure humanitarian access is essential to meet the growing needs of conflict-affected populations. Concerted action is needed to end this spiral of violence and protect civilians who continue to suffer the consequences of these armed clashes.
In conclusion, the violence in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo is causing serious consequences for civilian populations. Medical facilities are overwhelmed and resources are limited. There is an urgent need to act and guarantee secure humanitarian access to meet the needs of populations affected by this conflict. The protection of civilians and respect for international humanitarian law must remain at the heart of concerns.