A devastating humanitarian emergency is unfolding in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where rebel advances have severely restricted aid access, leaving hundreds of thousands of displaced people without crucial assistance.
Escalating Conflict and Mass Displacement
The situation in North and South Kivu has reached critical levels, with rebel forces moving southward and triggering widespread displacement. According to recent reports, over 350,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have lost emergency shelters due to heavy artillery shelling and looting.
UNHCR spokesperson Eujin Byun warned:
“The crisis is worsening as people flee to areas where humanitarian aid cannot reach due to insecurity.”
The destruction has been particularly severe around Goma and Minova, where an estimated 70,000 emergency shelters have been destroyed.
Health Emergency Amidst the Conflict
The humanitarian crisis is now compounded by a health emergency, with medical facilities destroyed or overwhelmed by the influx of displaced persons. Infectious diseases are spreading rapidly, including:
- Cholera
- Malaria
- Measles
- Mpox (formerly known as monkeypox)
The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the DRC as the worst-affected country for mpox, with Kivu at the epicenter of the outbreak. The crisis has disrupted treatment efforts, and 128 out of 143 confirmed mpox patients have fled isolation units in Goma, raising concerns about further outbreaks.
Aid Access Severely Disrupted
Humanitarian organizations face unprecedented challenges in reaching affected populations due to closed transport routes and ongoing violence. Key disruptions include:
- Closure of the Goma-Bukavu road
- Restricted access to Goma airport
- Continued fighting near critical aid corridors
Challenges for Returning IDPs
While 100,000 displaced persons have attempted to return home, they face dangerous conditions, including:
- Destroyed homes and infrastructure
- Lack of access to food, water, and healthcare
- Presence of unexploded ordnance
- Ongoing security threats from armed groups
International Response and Concerns
The international community is closely monitoring the worsening crisis. UN aid official Bruno Lemarquis has raised concerns over the potential impact on South Kivu’s main airport, which remains vital for humanitarian operations.
Humanitarian agencies continue to urge urgent intervention to restore aid access, provide medical assistance, and ensure the safety of civilians caught in the conflict.
⚠️ This is a developing story—updates will follow. ⚠️
For more updates, follow:
? UNHCR Eastern DRC Emergency
? WHO Health Emergency Reports
? UN News on DRC Crisis
