MSF Provides Critical Care in the Midst of Violent Clashes
In the war-torn region of Masisi, located in Nord-Kivu, violent clashes between the M23/RDF coalition and the FARDC, supported by the Volunteer Defense of the Fatherland (VDP), have left dozens injured and displaced. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has stepped in to provide essential medical care to those caught in the crossfire.
Residents Seek Refuge in Healthcare Facilities
The ongoing conflict has forced many residents to flee their homes, seeking temporary refuge in the compounds of Masisi General Hospital and the Nyabiondo Reference Health Center. Both of these facilities are being supported by MSF, who are working tirelessly to treat the wounded.
MSF Continues to Treat the Injured
MSF teams have been working in collaboration with the Ministry of Health to provide medical assistance to those affected by the clashes. Since Wednesday, they have treated 53 patients in Masisi and 13 in Nyabiondo. As the fighting shows no signs of abating, MSF emphasizes the importance of caring for and protecting the wounded, respecting medical personnel and facilities, and upholding international humanitarian law.
Renewed Clashes Heighten Tensions
Recent reports indicate that clashes have reignited between the M23/RDF coalition and local fighters known as “Wazalendo” along the Katale-Masisi center axis, passing through Lushebere. Despite a brief lull, the towns of Lushebere and Masisi center have reportedly fallen under the control of M23 terrorists following a strategic retreat by loyalist forces to minimize civilian casualties.
The situation in Masisi remains dire, with innocent civilians caught in the crossfire of a conflict that shows no signs of resolution. As MSF continues to provide critical medical care to the wounded, the need for a peaceful resolution to the violence becomes increasingly urgent.