The European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid, Hadja Lahbib, is currently in Rwanda during a significant visit to the Great Lakes region of Africa. After her stops in Kinshasa (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and Bujumbura (Burundi), she is engaging with local leaders and discussing the escalating humanitarian needs resulting from ongoing conflicts in Eastern DRC.

During her visit, the European Union announced a substantial humanitarian aid package of €81.2 million to support the victims of the conflict in Eastern DRC. The aid aims to provide critical assistance to those affected by violence, displacement, and the humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the situation. Lahbib's discussions with Rwandan President Paul Kagame are focused on collaborative efforts to address the pressing humanitarian requirements of vulnerable populations in the region.

Lahbib emphasized the importance of respecting international law and ensuring the safety of civilians and humanitarian workers. This statement highlights the ongoing challenges in the region, where the security of aid personnel remains a priority, and the need for all involved parties to uphold their responsibilities under international law. The visit underscores the EU's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance while fostering dialogue among regional leaders to enhance the response to this crisis.