UN has called for an end to the ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Fighting between government forces and M23 rebels has killed at least 700 people and injured 2,800 in just five days.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and government partners conducted an assessment, revealing the staggering toll. Officials have warned that the numbers may rise as more data comes in. The UN has urged an immediate halt to the fighting, with growing concerns about the situation in Goma, which is home to about 3 million people.
UN agencies address growing humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC
The World Food Programme (WFP) has raised concerns about the severe lack of food, clean water, and medical supplies. These essential resources are running out quickly, worsening the crisis. “People are running out of food, water, and medical supplies. This is a major concern,” said spokeswoman Shelley Thakral. The situation is also worsening due to human rights violations. The UN human rights office (OHCHR) reports that M23 rebels have bombed at least two internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. OHCHR also documented the execution of 12 people between January 26 and 28.
Jeremy Laurence, OHCHR spokesperson, warned that sexual violence could rise further if the fighting continues. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, called for an immediate ceasefire and for all parties to comply with international law.
Mass displacement and rising regional tensions
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) has expressed concern over the displacement of hundreds of thousands of civilians. Many of them were already living in difficult conditions. IOM Director General Amy Pope stressed the growing severity of the situation: “The fighting is worsening an already dire crisis.” The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) visited IDP sites near Goma and found that water and healthcare services remain operational but under great strain. Without urgent help, disease outbreaks could become more likely.
The M23 rebels launched a major offensive last week in Goma. The government in Kinshasa accused Rwanda of backing the rebels, though Rwanda denies the claim. Regional leaders have called for a ceasefire, as the death toll continues to rise. Uganda has also been accused of supporting the rebels but has rejected the claims.
Thousands have fled the violence, with many seeking refuge in Rwanda, including staff from international organisations like the UN and the World Bank. Rwanda has reported that nine of its citizens died in cross-border fire from Goma. At least 17 peacekeepers have also been killed since the fighting began.
