Tearfund, a leading humanitarian organization, has launched an urgent appeal to address the escalating humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The ongoing conflict in the eastern regions has forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes, leaving them in dire need of water, sanitation, and other essential supplies. Tearfund aims to provide clean water, hygiene kits, and financial aid to affected communities, helping them survive amid worsening conditions.
The humanitarian situation in the DRC has deteriorated significantly, particularly in Goma and its surrounding areas, where a sharp rise in violence since January has led to an estimated 3,000 deaths and 2,800 injuries. The conflict has displaced countless families, forcing them to seek refuge in makeshift camps, schools, and churches. These temporary shelters lack basic services such as clean water, proper sanitation, and adequate food supplies, placing vulnerable groups including women, children, and the elderly at even greater risk.
Tearfund’s Country Director for the DRC, Poppy Anguandia, expressed deep concern over the crisis, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance. She stated:
“As violence, unrest, and instability continue in the DRC, the needs our staff and partners are witnessing are unprecedented. To survive, people urgently need more help, and an end to the conflict. Tearfund is prioritizing water and sanitation needs, as clean water is crucial for survival.”
Lack of access to clean water exacerbates the crisis, leading to increased cases of preventable diseases such as cholera and dysentery. Tearfund’s emergency response focuses on distributing water and hygiene kits to displaced families to prevent further loss of life due to waterborne illnesses.
For many displaced individuals, this is not the first time they have been forced to flee. Rose, a mother of seven, has been displaced multiple times over the past three years. Currently seeking refuge in a school, she described the challenges her family faces:
“I was living in a camp before the attacks, but we had to leave. I’m now sheltering in a classroom with my family, but there are so many of us here. I’m scared for the future, but now that we have somewhere to shelter and some water to drink, I have hope we can survive.”
The overcrowding in these makeshift shelters has further disrupted education, as schools that once served as learning spaces are now temporary homes for displaced families. This situation puts children’s education on hold indefinitely, deepening the long-term impact of the conflict.
Tearfund’s Regional Director for East and Central Africa, Hebdavi Kyeya, highlighted the uncertain future for displaced individuals. Many have been encouraged to return to their original homes or seek alternative housing in Goma. However, with the ongoing violence, instability, and economic hardships, returning home is not a viable option for many. Kyeya stressed the need for sustainable solutions, stating:
“Makeshift camps where around half a million internally displaced people had been living are now being dismantled. People are being encouraged to find a place to live in the city of Goma or return to their homes. But with so much ongoing instability and uncertainty, people are understandably anxious and do not necessarily have the means or courage to move again.”
Tearfund remains committed to providing support in both Goma and other regions of the DRC. However, lasting peace and stability are crucial for the affected communities to rebuild their lives. The organization is calling on the international community to increase humanitarian assistance and advocate for a resolution to the conflict.
Tearfund’s emergency appeal aims to raise funds to expand its response efforts. Contributions will go toward:
- Providing clean water and hygiene kits
- Distributing emergency cash for basic necessities
- Supporting displaced families in temporary shelters
- Offering assistance to those returning home
As the crisis in the DRC continues to unfold, the need for humanitarian aid has never been greater. With immediate support, Tearfund and its partners can help alleviate suffering and bring hope to the people caught in this devastating conflict.
