Overview of the Escalating Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis in DRC

The conflict between M23/AFC armed group and the Congolese army has escalated across North and South Kivu provinces of the DRC, resulting in massive displacement and increased humanitarian needs. Fighting has intensified near Goma, causing thousands to flee and overwhelming medical facilities. Doctors Without Borders is actively engaged in providing support despite significant security challenges.

In recent weeks, the conflict involving the M23/AFC armed group and the Congolese army has significantly escalated across North and South Kivu provinces in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). On January 24, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) representative Emmanuel Lampaert provided an update regarding the situation and MSF’s response efforts in the area.

Since December 2024, various fronts have emerged in these provinces as groups vie for dominance over critical areas. In North Kivu’s Lubero territory, a resumption of conflict has resulted in considerable population displacement, which spread into Masisi territory amid intense clashes, particularly over Masisi Centre. The situation has progressed into South Kivu’s Minova and Numbi regions.

M23/AFC has successfully captured several towns during this period, with recent fighting approaching the provincial capital of Goma, especially evident in Sake, just 12 miles away. Artillery fire can regularly be heard from Goma, causing panic and leading to an influx of displaced individuals seeking refuge in the city from nearby camps now under threat.

The humanitarian situation has drastically worsened, with the United Nations reporting that approximately 400,000 people have fled since January, exacerbating an already dire living condition for those in displacement camps. Many, already significantly weakened from ongoing conflict, now face inadequate shelter, food, water, and medical care. The sites are increasingly under threat from combat activities.

Merciless fighting near these camps has left civilians vulnerable, leading to injuries and fatalities. An example occurred in Masisi where a hospital supported by MSF came under fire with several injuries reported. Lives are at risk due to the proximity of fighting to health facilities and displacement shelters, highlighting the need to respect humanitarian law even amidst conflict.

MSF has been striving to maintain its medical services despite security risks limiting some activities. Around Goma, armed violence has curtailed access to affected areas, yet MSF continues to supply medical facilities and prepare them for incoming casualties. The organization provides support at Kyeshero Hospital and assists the overwhelmed emergency services at Ndosho Hospital.

In addition, MSF remains committed to treating casualties and supporting displaced individuals in regions like Lubero by improving access to essential resources. Despite ongoing challenges, MSF has treated nearly 400 injuries in recent weeks across various hospitals, emphasizing its dedication to providing necessary care.

The conflict in DRC has intensified, resulting in mass casualties and widespread displacement among civilians. Previous ceasefires, part of the Luanda peace process, have been undermined, leading to renewed hostilities in Masisi and Lubero territories. In a short span, over 100,000 individuals were displaced within Masisi, raising further humanitarian concerns. Gunfire has emerged around medical facilities, reinforcing the urgent need for protections for civilians and healthcare workers in this ongoing crisis.

The conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo has escalated between the M23/AFC armed group and the Congolese army, exacerbating an already critical humanitarian situation. The ongoing violence has led to significant population displacements, safety concerns at medical facilities, and deteriorating living conditions for displaced individuals. Such circumstances underline the importance of adhering to humanitarian laws to protect vulnerable populations during conflicts.

The intensifying conflict in the DRC’s North and South Kivu provinces has led to severe humanitarian repercussions, including extensive civilian displacement and overwhelming challenges for medical facilities. As armed groups vie for control, the presence of injured civilians raises grave concerns about adherence to humanitarian standards. MSF continues to operate on the ground, maintaining crucial medical services amidst ongoing violence and logistical challenges. The situation calls for urgent global attention and action to mitigate the suffering of affected individuals.

Original Source: www.doctorswithoutborders.org