Goma, October 26, 2024 – The alarming situation of women displaced by war in the Muja site, in Nyiragongo territory, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, continues to raise major concerns. Indeed, twenty cases of sexual violence against these women have recently been recorded, highlighting the extreme vulnerability of these victims to heinous crimes.
At the heart of this tragedy, women and young girls were victims of rape while traveling to find firewood on the outskirts of Virunga National Park. These barbaric acts were perpetrated by armed individuals whose identity remains obscure, but whose cruelty leaves no doubt about their desire to sow terror and oppression among the displaced populations.
Mr. Bosenibamwe Muzungu Jean-Etienne, Executive Secretary of ACADEPA, testifies to the horror experienced by these women forced to flee and survive in extremely difficult conditions. It underlines the urgent need for effective intervention by the competent authorities and humanitarian organizations to protect these women and girls displaced by war, and to put an end to these unacceptable violations of their fundamental rights.
Faced with this emergency situation, ACADEPA is working resolutely to raise awareness among these victims of sexual violence about the crucial importance of going to the hospital within 72 hours of the attack, in order to receive the necessary medical and psychological care. At the same time, this human rights organization is tirelessly advocating with the authorities and humanitarian partners for comprehensive and effective care for these survivors, both medically and socio-economically.
It is imperative that these women displaced by war, already victims of a deadly conflict that has led to their uprooting, receive all the assistance and support necessary to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. Their voices must be heard, their suffering recognized and their safety guaranteed in all circumstances.
At a time when humanity is facing unprecedented challenges, it is our collective duty to defend the rights of the most vulnerable and to show solidarity with those who have suffered so much. The fight against violence against women and girls, particularly in conflict zones, must be a top priority for the international community and for every individual concerned with justice and peace.
Together, let us act to end impunity for the perpetrators of these abject crimes, to protect victims and to build a better future for all, where human dignity and fundamental rights are respected and defended tirelessly.