A humanitarian crisis is deepening in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as escalating violence in South Kivu Province displaces tens of thousands of civilians and strains medical resources. Recent bombings near Bukavu, the provincial capital, have injured civilians, damaged infrastructure, and forced residents to flee as the rebel group M23 advances.
Conflict Triggers Health Catastrophe
Over 33,000 people have returned to villages near Goma despite ongoing risks. The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that destroyed medical facilities and supply shortages are hampering treatment for chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes. Infectious diseases such as cholera and measles are spreading rapidly, with nearly 600 cholera cases and 14 deaths reported in North Kivu in January alone.
Humanitarian Aid Under Threat
Three NGO workers were killed in a recent bombing, halting critical food and agriculture assistance. Water shortages in Goma have forced reliance on untreated lake water, exacerbating health risks. The UN and partners are struggling to deploy emergency medical kits and expand hospital capacity as supplies dwindle.
Global Response Urged
International organizations call for urgent support to address displacement, disease outbreaks, and attacks on aid workers. \"The situation demands immediate action to prevent further loss of life,\" said a UN humanitarian coordinator.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
