Around thirty thousand displaced families find themselves without any humanitarian assistance in the Lubero territory, in North Kivu, a critical situation which continues to cause alarm. These displaced people, mainly women and children, fled clashes between the Congolese armed forces and the M23 rebels in the neighboring territory of Rutshuru. They find themselves scattered in different localities in Lubero, such as Kanyabayonga, Luofu and Mbwanvinywa.
Their most urgent needs are diverse. First of all, the question of shelter is crucial. Many of these displaced people are housed in precarious conditions, whether in host families, churches, markets or overcrowded schools. These conditions particularly expose women and children to violence of all kinds, including sexual exploitation.
Furthermore, access to drinking water is a major concern. In the absence of a drinking water supply network, these displaced people face the risk of water-borne diseases, putting their health at risk.
In addition, the question of food arises acutely. These vulnerable populations have a pressing need for food to meet their basic needs.
Faced with the constant influx of displaced people in the south of the Lubero territory, concerns are being raised about the availability of medicines in local health structures. This situation risks depriving tens of thousands of children and pregnant women of access to essential health care.
It is urgent that measures be taken to respond to these dire humanitarian needs and to guarantee the protection and well-being of these displaced populations. Their precarious situation requires a rapid and coordinated response from authorities and humanitarian organizations to avoid a humanitarian catastrophe in this region already weakened by armed conflicts.