The capital, Kinshasa, is grappling with a profound humanitarian emergency as thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who escaped the ongoing conflict in the eastern part of the country arrive. A distressing number of fatalities have occurred among these displaced communities, directly attributed to insufficient aid and support.

The majority of these internal migrants originate from the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu, having fled the advances of the AFC-M23 rebels over a year ago. Additionally, a significant number have arrived from the neighboring Ituri province, escaping violent assaults perpetrated by various armed groups, including the Cooperative for the Development of Congo (Codéco) and the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

abandoned to their plight

Over 2,600 households are currently enduring an extremely precarious humanitarian situation. Many find themselves without any form of shelter, having been forced to vacate the churches and mosques that previously offered them temporary refuge.

Adding to the urgency of the situation is the high proportion of highly vulnerable individuals among these displaced populations.

“Among the most vulnerable are pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, young children, students, and the elderly. They are here in Kinshasa, completely without access to healthcare, adequate housing, or even sufficient food. Their struggle is profound and all-encompassing,” lamented Jordan Mulikuza, who serves as the president of the displaced persons from the East in Kinshasa.

the ordeal of displaced students

The plight of displaced students is particularly severe. While some arrived fleeing direct conflict, others had come to Kinshasa prior to the hostilities to pursue their education. These students now face incredibly challenging circumstances, often cut off from their families who have either been displaced themselves or, tragically, lost their lives. Jacques Chiza acts as the representative for this student community.

“We are enduring extremely difficult times. Many of us lack food, and the majority of students are forced to sleep outdoors due to having no place to stay. We have received virtually no assistance. We urgently appeal to anyone of goodwill to come to our aid, as the situation has become truly alarming,” he warned.

urgent call for state intervention

A staggering sixteen individuals have tragically succumbed to illness, deprived of essential healthcare access within the Congolese capital. Internally displaced persons have repeatedly petitioned both government authorities and humanitarian organizations for help, yet their pleas have yielded no substantial results. They are now demanding direct intervention and support from the state.

“We witness new cases of illness every single day. I am issuing an urgent appeal to the international community, United Nations organizations, and our government to explore all possible avenues for intervention,” emphasized Jordan Mulikuza, president of the displaced from the East in Kinshasa. He further cautioned, “We implore the authorities to act before the situation deteriorates further. Indeed, we are sending an alarm call directly to the Head of State, urging immediate and decisive action.”

The displaced communities have voiced a strong desire to be consolidated into a single site, believing this would significantly streamline access to humanitarian aid. However, Théogène Nkundiye, an advisor within the Ministry of Social Affairs, Humanitarian Action, and National Solidarity, stated that “their situation is recognized and is currently under review for a long-term solution. It is premature to discuss details today; more information will be available at an opportune moment.”

This official response regrettably indicates that no concrete decisions have yet been made to provide immediate relief to the thousands of internally displaced persons who are struggling to survive in the Congolese capital.