In the Lac Vert region, in the city of Goma in North Kivu, an urgent humanitarian situation was declared by Dedesi Mitima, head of the district, following the influx of more than 2,000 displaced households seeking refuge and ‘help. These vulnerable families come from the territories of Masisi in North Kivu and Kalehe in South Kivu, fleeing clashes between national security forces and M23 rebels, which continue to intensify.
The massive arrival of these displaced people in local accommodation sites has created a precarious and alarming situation. Living conditions are extremely difficult for these people who have abandoned everything to escape the violence. Lack of adequate food, shelter, blankets and sanitation exposes these households to serious health and safety risks.
Chief Dedesi Mitima is sounding a cry of alarm to humanitarian agencies, the government and the general population for emergency intervention. He points out that promiscuity in the camps is already causing tragic incidents, with reported cases of suffocation. He stresses the need for rapid action to provide vital humanitarian aid to these displaced people and to prevent possible health crises.
Beyond the humanitarian emergency, Dedesi Mitima calls for solidarity from all towards these compatriots in distress. It underlines the importance of everyone’s contribution to building peace in the region, in order to ensure a more stable and secure future for all. The current situation highlights the need for a collective and coordinated response to meet the immediate needs of these displaced populations and to promote stability and reconciliation in the region.
It is essential that the international community, humanitarian organizations, the government and the local population join forces to respond to this humanitarian crisis and to facilitate the return of displaced people in conditions of safety and dignity. The solidarity and commitment of everyone are essential to overcome current challenges and to build a better future for all communities affected by the conflict.