The United Nations has raised alarms over the worsening humanitarian situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), particularly in the eastern regions where ongoing conflict continues to claim lives and disrupt essential services.
Addressing the media this week, Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesperson for Secretary-General António Guterres, provided an update on the dire conditions faced by civilians in the area.
In the Masisi territory of North Kivu province, recent fighting has resulted in the deaths of at least four civilians and left 15 others injured. The violence has severely disrupted humanitarian assessments, leaving many communities without critical aid. “The situation in Masisi is deeply concerning,” Dujarric stated. “The ongoing conflict is not only claiming lives but also hindering our ability to deliver much-needed assistance to those in distress.”
In South Kivu, there is a slight improvement as schools in Kalehe Territory, located about 65 kilometers north of Bukavu, are gradually reopening. These schools had been closed for several weeks due to intense fighting that exposed children and teachers to severe human rights violations. However, the threat of unexploded ordnance remains a significant concern in areas affected by recent clashes, including two schools in the city of Minova, north of Bukavu.
“The presence of unexploded ordnance poses a serious risk to the safety of students and educators,” Dujarric emphasized.
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reiterated the urgent need for all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law. “Protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, is paramount,” Dujarric said. “We call on all parties to respect these principles to prevent further loss of life and suffering.”
