The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis as conflict escalates, displacing millions and leaving children and women most vulnerable, HumAngle Foundation said on Saturday. The occupation of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, by the March 23 Movement (M23) has intensified violence, with reports of civilian casualties and attacks on humanitarian workers, the Nigeria-based foundation added.
The fighting has forced millions to flee, with over six million people displaced since M23’s resurgence in 2021—the highest displacement in Africa. Children are among the hardest hit, facing hunger, disrupted education, and homelessness, while women risk heightened levels of sexual violence. Humanitarian organisations, including Save the Children and the World Food Programme, warn that aid delivery has become increasingly difficult due to insecurity and funding shortages.
The conflict, rooted in decades of political instability and competition over the region’s vast resources, has drawn accusations of foreign involvement. The Congolese government blames Rwanda for supporting M23, a claim Rwanda denies. Meanwhile, humanitarian groups stress the urgent need for international support to address food insecurity, healthcare shortages, and education gaps.
