DRC’s Conflict-Displaced Face Severe Hunger and Uncertain Futures

In northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, millions face displacement due to ongoing conflict, leading to severe food insecurity. Individuals like Linda L. and Safi illustrate the stark challenges of returning home to find destroyed lives. The World Food Programme is working to address these needs but faces significant funding limitations and insecurity in delivering aid.

Linda L. has returned to her village of Bweremana in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), only to discover a field overtaken by weeds and a roof that is full of holes. She faces the harsh reality of losing precious livestock and belongings during the conflict. “I have to start again,” she admits, revealing the impact of the ongoing violence on her family’s life as she collects food aid from the World Food Programme (WFP).

In recent years, over five million individuals have been displaced as conflict intensifies in northeastern DRC, forcing many to seek refuge outside their country. Those returning face dire living conditions with destroyed homes and shattered livelihoods. These areas, once prosperous with crops, now reflect the devastating repercussions of ongoing violence. The food crisis is dire, as more than 10 million people in eastern DRC grapple with acute hunger, a troubling increase attributed to escalating conflicts and economic challenges.

Eric Perdison, WFP’s Regional Director for Southern Africa, emphasizes the alarming deterioration of the humanitarian situation in DRC. He stated, “The humanitarian situation in the DRC is deteriorating at an alarming rate…” stressing the urgent need for assistance. In order to support 6.4 million people, the WFP seeks US$399 million over the next six months.

Despite funding challenges, WFP has made strides in aiding those affected, having reached over 700,000 people thus far in 2023. “We are committed to do more to support those at risk,” Perdison continues, highlighting the necessity for additional resources to fight hunger in the region. Factors such as bank closures and soaring inflation intensify the crisis, drastically increasing the prices of essential goods.

Linda described the crucial role of WFP assistance, calling it “vital” as her community awaits new harvests from farming. She fled with her children to Goma due to intensified fighting, abandoning their recent harvest and essential belongings. Currently, she struggles to rebuild her life as returning families start patching homes with makeshift materials.

Wilfred Nkwambi, the WFP Goma Office Head, underscores the organization’s priority to assist those in dire need, stating the complex circumstances on the ground. Meanwhile, Safi, another mother navigating the aftermath of displacement, reflects on her challenges after finding her home destroyed. “The needs are just too great,” she declares, revealing the stark reality for many families who have lost their loved ones and livelihoods. WFP’s support is crucial in combating hunger, providing much-needed assistance for those without stable employment.

WFP’s efforts in combating the hunger crisis in eastern DRC receive support from numerous donors, including Belgium, Canada, the European Union, and the United States, among others, highlighting the international commitment to addressing this humanitarian emergency.

The humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, particularly in the eastern regions, underscores the urgent need for sustained assistance amid escalating conflicts and extreme food insecurity. With millions displaced and returning to devastated homes, organizations like the World Food Programme are critical in providing food and support. However, significant funding shortfalls impede relief efforts, making it imperative to garner international support to alleviate the plight of the affected populations.

Original Source: www.wfp.org