Recent news concerning the situation in Goma, under the encirclement of armed groups, arouses serious concern and mobilizes urgent humanitarian action. The representative of the OCHA office in Geneva, Ramesh Rajasingham, expressed concern about the growing vulnerability of displaced people in the region.
At the heart of this crisis, the city of Goma finds itself isolated and facing major challenges. With half a million people already displaced, the need for rapid and effective intervention is of critical importance. Humanitarian actors on site are doing their best to meet the essential needs of vulnerable populations, but resources are insufficient to cover all needs.
Ramesh Rajasingham highlights the urgency of strengthening financial support from donors and donors to fully finance the humanitarian response plan. The needs of displaced people go well beyond simple material assistance: protection against abuse, access to water, food and education are all areas where concrete actions must be taken.
Beyond the material aspect, it is also crucial to consider the psychological and emotional trauma suffered by these displaced people, including the risks of gender-based violence and sexual violence. The protection of the fundamental rights of these populations must be at the heart of any humanitarian intervention.
This alarming situation in Goma once again highlights the need for strengthened international solidarity to deal with humanitarian crises. Recent events in Goma and surrounding provinces demonstrate the urgency of action to protect the most vulnerable populations and guarantee them a safer and more stable future.
Ultimately, it is essential that the international community and local actors join forces to effectively respond to the needs of displaced people in Goma and to create conditions conducive to their social and economic reintegration in the region.