**Fatshimetry: Massive displacement and violence in the Birambizo health zone, North Kivu**
The troubled region of North Kivu is once again the scene of human tragedies, as recurring violence upends local populations. The recent clashes in the Birambizo health zone have led to a massive displacement of more than 86,000 people in the space of a few days, highlighting a humanitarian crisis of alarming proportions.
The figures published by the United Nations Organization for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) only underline the urgency of the situation. The displaced, forced to flee their homes to seek refuge in Tongo and Kabizo, find themselves facing extremely precarious living conditions. The lack of access to health care, food and basic necessities constitutes a major challenge for these populations already traumatized by the violence.
Disturbing reports of deadly attacks on innocent civilians in areas such as Binza and Bukombo are evidence of the magnitude of the security crisis in the region. Bomb explosions and the resulting loss of life only serve to exacerbate the already tense situation.
Yet, there are still glimmers of hope, as evidenced by the gradual return of nearly 25,000 people to the Bwisha chiefdom, where a semblance of calm had prevailed in recent months. However, restrictions imposed by armed groups on agricultural activities raise fears of a new wave of famine and food shortages.
Faced with these immense challenges, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) themselves face major obstacles in providing the necessary assistance. Interference by armed groups, access restrictions and attacks on humanitarian personnel seriously threaten the ability of NGOs to respond effectively to the needs of the most vulnerable populations.
In this context of violence and instability, it is imperative that the international community step up its efforts to assist displaced and conflict-affected populations. OCHA’s call for an intensification of humanitarian interventions and an improvement in security conditions is more crucial than ever.
It is essential that humanitarian actors and local authorities work together to ensure safe and unhindered access for humanitarian assistance in the most affected areas. The protection of civilians, the provision of health care and food, and the promotion of peace and stability must be at the heart of the actions undertaken to respond to this humanitarian crisis of unprecedented scale.