The living conditions of displaced persons at the Kigonze site in Bunia, Ituri, Democratic Republic of the Congo, have significantly deteriorated following a series of fires that ravaged makeshift shelters. According to a statement released by the cultural association ENTE on September 23, 2026, families have been dispersed, and those affected are being forced to sleep under the stars. The association highlighted that women, children, and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the harsh conditions.
The ENTE association expressed deep concern over the lack of protective structures and humanitarian organizations at the site to provide assistance to the displaced persons. In response to the crisis, the association has called upon the provincial authorities and the National Refugee Commission (CNR) to intervene and provide urgent support. The situation remains dire, with many struggling to access basic necessities.
The ENTE association also raised alarm over the presence of armed groups within the Kigonze site. According to the association, elements of these groups, specifically those identified as belonging to the CRP, have infiltrated the site, posing significant risks to the civilians. The association has urged for the immediate withdrawal of these groups to ensure the safety of the displaced persons.
Jean-Claude Ngadjole, the national president of ENTE, emphasized that individual criminal responsibility must be upheld and that innocent civilians must be protected. He encouraged the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) to continue their mission of protection with professionalism. Ngadjole also called on the displaced persons to cooperate with the authorities and report any suspicious individuals present at the site.
The fires that ravaged the Kigonze site have left many without shelter, exacerbating the already precarious living conditions. The association's call for intervention has highlighted the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and protection for the displaced persons. Efforts to address the situation are crucial to preventing further deterioration of the living conditions.
The situation at the Kigonze site is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by displaced persons in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The presence of armed groups and the lack of humanitarian assistance have created a volatile environment, underscoring the need for immediate action to protect civilians and provide essential support.
The ENTE association's efforts to bring attention to the plight of the displaced persons in Kigonze have underscored the importance of collaboration between authorities, humanitarian organizations, and local communities to address the crisis. The association's recommendations for the withdrawal of armed groups and the provision of humanitarian assistance are critical to ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected populations.
Key points
- Displaced persons in Kigonze face dire living conditions after fires destroyed shelters.
- The presence of armed groups within the site poses significant risks to civilians.
- The association ENTE has called for urgent intervention from provincial authorities and the National Refugee Commission.
