Mapping the Human Toll of the Ongoing Conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing a severe humanitarian crisis with ongoing violence from M23 rebels, resulting in millions displaced and a rising death toll. As of early 2025, over 7 million people are displaced, significant food shortages affect almost a quarter of the population, and humanitarian efforts are being hampered by violent conflicts and looting.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is grappling with a devastating humanitarian crisis due to ongoing violence, particularly from the M23 rebel group, resulting in widespread displacement. Millions have been compelled to flee their homes, with reports indicating that at least 7,000 individuals have been killed in recent months while many more have sustained injuries.

The M23 rebels have intensified their attacks in eastern DRC, notably seizing control of Goma in January and capturing Bukavu in February. This rebel group, originating from former Congolese soldiers primarily of the Tutsi ethnicity, was formed in response to alleged government breaches of peace accords signed in 2009. Following a period of dormancy, M23 resumed its military activities towards the end of 2021.

Recent conflict escalated after failed peace talks in December 2024, leading to rapid advances by M23 fighters. By January 27, 2025, they had taken Goma, a pivotal humanitarian center, and continued their campaign, capturing Bukavu and Walikale, insisting on their commitment to peace despite dismissing ceasefire calls.

The displacement crisis has reached alarming proportions, with over 7 million individuals uprooted, including 3.8 million in the conflict-affected Kivu provinces. Reports indicate that nearly 780,000 individuals fled between November 2024 and January 2025 alone. The UN Refugee Agency has noted over 100,000 individuals crossed into neighboring countries, further exacerbating the humanitarian situation.

As the humanitarian conditions worsen, approximately 25% of DRC’s 112 million population faces acute food insecurity due to ongoing conflicts and rising prices. Before the latest escalation, 21 million individuals already required aid, and this number is expected to climb significantly as food shortages persist. Looting of humanitarian resources has worsened the situation, depriving countless individuals of essential supplies.

The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo represents one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world. With millions displaced, an escalating death toll, and significant food shortages, the situation requires urgent attention. The role of armed groups like M23 and the failure of peace negotiations underscore the complexities of the conflict, highlighting the dire need for effective humanitarian intervention and lasting peace efforts.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com