Nord-Kivu Crisis: Over 290,000 Displaced in December 2024 Due to Armed Conflicts
In a recent report released by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Thursday, January 9, a dire situation unfolds in Lubero, Nord-Kivu, following clashes between the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and M23 rebels supported by Rwanda. Throughout December 2024, the ongoing war coupled with food insecurity has led to a displacement of over 290,000 individuals in the northeastern, northwestern, and southern regions of the province.
Humanitarian Crisis Intensifies
Amidst the escalating armed confrontations linked to the M23 crisis, OCHA highlights a worsening humanitarian crisis over the past month. The increased armed attacks by the ADF against civilian populations have further exacerbated the vulnerabilities of already fragile communities, forcing them into multiple displacements. In southern Lubero, continuous clashes between FARDC and the M23 have resulted in over 290,000 people being displaced to the north, northeast, northwest, and south of the territory.
Furthermore, the report specifies that these new displacements have led to a surge in critical humanitarian needs in a historically hard-to-reach region. On the RN2, the main road connecting Lubero to other localities in the territory, access remains severely restricted, posing significant challenges to the response capacity of humanitarian actors based in Beni and Butembo.
Efforts to Alleviate the Crisis
To address this pressing situation, OCHA plans to launch awareness-raising initiatives and strengthen community actors with the support of the Humanitarian Fund and NRC in Lubero, Musinene, and Butembo. These efforts aim to facilitate a swift and effective humanitarian response to the crisis.
Recent Developments and Ongoing Challenges
As clashes resumed this week in Lubero, Thursday saw intensified fighting between the army and the M23 in Mambasa and Mathembe. Tragically, at least one civilian lost their life due to a bomb explosion in Kitsombiro. A house was also destroyed in the incident.
According to the latest OCHA statistics, Nord-Kivu province currently hosts the highest number of internally displaced persons in the DRC, with a staggering 2.5 million individuals forced to flee their homes.
The situation in Nord-Kivu demands urgent attention and concerted efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the displaced populations and to address the root causes of the conflict. As the region grapples with the devastating impacts of armed conflicts, it is crucial for international partners and local authorities to collaborate effectively in providing essential aid and protection to those affected by the crisis.