Mar 19 β€’ 10:24 UTC 🌍 Africa RFI Afrique (FR)

In southern DR Congo, displaced persons fleeing fighting in eastern provinces call for help

In Lubumbashi, southern DR Congo, hundreds of displaced individuals are seeking humanitarian assistance after fleeing violent clashes.

In southern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in Lubumbashi, a large number of displaced individuals have gathered outside the provincial governor's office, pleading for humanitarian aid. They have been living in dire conditions after fleeing intense fighting between the armed group M23, supported by Rwanda, and the Congolese army (FARDC) along with their allies. Without shelter or food, these individuals, including women and children, are in urgent need of assistance, having spent a challenging night exposed to the elements.

Human rights advocates have expressed serious concerns about the state’s indifference to the humanitarian crisis faced by these displaced persons. The absence of immediate aid has highlighted the inadequacy of the government's response to a situation that appears to be worsening. This collective of displaced individuals has been enduring significant hardship, emphasizing the need for increased attention and support from both local authorities and humanitarian organizations.

In response to the outcry, the provincial government has indicated that it will provide assistance in the coming days, but many remain skeptical about the effectiveness and timeliness of this promised help given the severity of their situation. The plight of these displaced individuals reflects broader issues of instability and violence affecting eastern DRC, necessitating a comprehensive approach to humanitarian relief and regional security.

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