In the North Kivu province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the humanitarian situation in Pinga is alarming. Recent violence between M23 rebels and local fighters has caused a massive influx of displaced people to the Pinga General Hospital, which is now overwhelmed by the number of people it needs to accommodate.
Dr. Théophile Mukandirwa, the medical director of the facility, describes the confusion and distress among the displaced populations. Between the lack of care, food and decent housing, the inhabitants of Pinga are living in catastrophic conditions. Civilians find themselves abandoned to their own devices, with no outside help to support them.
Dr. Mukandirwa’s call for help is poignant. More than 3,000 households have taken refuge in the hospital, or around 12,000 to 15,000 people in search of safety and support. The precarious living conditions, the lack of hygiene and medicines make the situation all the more critical. The authorities and humanitarians are urgently called upon to provide essential aid to these populations in distress.
The presence of the army in Pinga adds a complex dimension to the humanitarian crisis. The fear of an escalation of fighting and a worsening of the situation pushes many actors to fear the worst. In a region already affected by an acute humanitarian crisis, every day counts to save lives and alleviate the suffering of the inhabitants.
The territory of Walikale, recently targeted by the M23 rebels, lives to the rhythm of violence and uncertainty. Villages fall one after the other, leaving behind a landscape of desolation and fear. Faced with this critical situation, it is imperative that concrete and urgent measures be taken to protect the civilian populations and offer them hope for the future.
In these dark and troubled times, solidarity and mobilization of all are essential to face this unprecedented humanitarian crisis. It is urgent to act, to reach out to those who are suffering and to make their voices heard so that peace and dignity can finally return to this region scarred by conflict.