United Nations: Crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo worsening

At the end of January 2025, the United Nations agencies have warned about the worsening humanitarian crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and have called for an immediate end to the violence caused by the fighting between Government forces and the M23 armed group supported by Rwanda. Rebels have seized Goma, the provincial capital and the hostilities have compelled hundreds of thousands to flee their homes and seek shelter in displacement camps. 

The critical supplies are dwindling as medical services are overwhelmed by the number of injured people due to intense fighting in and around Goma. There is a shortage of food, clean water, and medical supplies. World Food Programme representativeShelley Thakralhas has voiced these concerns. The UN human rights office, OHCHR, has reported that at least two sites for internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been bombed. Sexual violence by the army and allied Wazalendo fighters in Kalehe territory, located in South Kivu, has also been reported. The M23 advances towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, has raised concerns about a worsening humanitarian crisis that could lead to a health crisis. Cholera cases have already been registered and there are chances of Mpox spreading. 

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has voiced its concerns and appealed to the international community to support the humanitarian efforts. The IOM and the humanitarian partners are unable to cope or meet the urgent needs of the affected people. At least $50 million is urgently needed to address the current displacements and prevent further suffering.