Over 230,000 people have fled violence in eastern DRC since January 1, 2025, amid significant conflict involving the M23 rebel group. This situation marks one of the world’s most alarming humanitarian crises, with millions already displaced and urgent funding required for aid efforts.
The United Nations has reported that over 230,000 individuals have fled escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since January 1, marking it as one of the most concerning humanitarian crises globally. This violence has been prevalent in the resource-abundant provinces of North and South Kivu, which have suffered conflict for approximately 30 years.
The M23 rebel group, which is supported by Rwanda and has been deemed a “terrorist movement” by the Congolese government, has gained significant control over eastern DRC, having captured considerable territory since 2021. Recently, they took over the town of Masisi, exacerbating the instability in the region.
Eujin Byun, a spokeswoman for the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), emphasized that the ongoing clashes between non-state armed groups and the Congolese army are intensifying the crisis that has already displaced 4.6 million people in the DRC, making it one of the countries with the largest number of internally displaced persons.
Reports from local residents in Kabingo and Ruzirantaka indicate continued violence marked by heavy weaponry, with significant displacement occurring in the first week of January alone, as approximately 150,000 individuals fled their homes. While some people returned temporarily, renewed hostilities forced many to flee once again.
In the Fizi territory of South Kivu, local authorities have sought international aid, reporting that 84,000 displaced individuals are currently seeking refuge there. Byun highlighted that innocent civilians face the dangers of “indiscriminate bombings and sexual violence,” putting children at risk as well.
Conditions become increasingly dire, with access to those in need heavily restricted due to violence, roadblocks, and armed groups. UNHCR is prepared to provide emergency assistance but requires substantial funding, estimating a need for $226 million this year while having received less than ten percent of this amount thus far.
Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict for decades, particularly in North and South Kivu, regions rich in natural resources. The resurgence of violence by armed groups like M23 has led to increasing numbers of internally displaced persons. Despite humanitarian efforts, the ongoing instability has created challenging conditions for civilians, necessitating international attention and aid to address their plight.
The situation in eastern DRC remains critical, with rapid increases in displacement due to ongoing violence led by armed groups. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, demanding urgent response and resources from the international community to support the millions affected. UNHCR has emphasized its readiness to assist, contingent upon adequate funding and safe access to those in need.
Original Source: www.france24.com
