Fresh violence in DRC displaces over 100,000

Escalating violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has displaced 100,000 people since the start of this year.

A statement on Monday by Save the Children, an international charity, said more than half of those affected are children, adding that the conflict has hindered aid teams from reaching them.

The DRC conflict has been named one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.

Nearly seven million people, including at least 3.5 million children, have been displaced, and more than 26 million people — or one in every four people — need humanitarian assistance, according to the charity organisation.

Poor governance, poor management of post-colonial nation/state building, and conflict over land and other natural resources are some factors driving the conflict.

The statement said the fighting has been intense around Rubaya, a town known for its mines producing coltan, a mineral used in batteries for electric vehicles and cell phones.

“The humanitarian crisis in the D.R. Congo is at its worst in decades. Ongoing conflict has blocked several roads, forcing our team to delay a critical mission to assist those in need. However, we remain on the ground, ready to deliver aid as soon as access is restored,” Greg Ramm, Save the Children’s country director for DRC, was quoted as saying.

“The situation in the eastern provinces of Ituri, North Kivu, and South Kivu has deteriorated with millions of people already experiencing high levels of acute food insecurity, children are most affected.”

Ramm urged all parties to the conflict to prioritise the wellbeing of children and their families and ensure access to all areas can be restored as soon as possible.