The World Food Programme (WFP) has expressed deep concern over the escalating violence in North and South Kuvu, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has displaced over 700,000 people in the city of Goma. The conflict has resulted in a massive humanitarian crisis, with 3 million people forced to flee their homes in eastern DRC in 2024.
The situation has drastically deteriorated, with the March 23 movement (M23) non-state armed group taking control of Goma, the provincial capital of North Kuvu. Active combat between the Congolese armed forces and the rebel group has resulted in:
- Thousands of displaced people fleeing for safety due to heavy bombing and shelling
- Damage to infrastructure, including water and electricity supply
- Disruption of phone and internet services
- Looting of warehouses, including those of WFP and other NGOs
- Scarcity of food and essential supplies, leading to increased prices and reduced accessibility
The conflict has also resulted in:
- Massive violations of International Humanitarian Law, including sexual violence and forced recruitment
- Increased protection risks, particularly for women and girls
- Overwhelmed health facilities, struggling to cope with the influx of casualties and diseases such as mpox, cholera, and measles
In response to the escalating violence, WFP has paused its operations in areas close to the frontlines to ensure the safety of its staff and the people it serves. However, WFP remains committed to supporting the 7.1 million most vulnerable people in DRC, who depend on its assistance for survival.
WFP requires USD 410 million to provide life-saving food and nutrition assistance in DRC. The organization urges for peace and stability in the region, allowing for the resumption of critical assistance and the rebuilding of communities.
