The humanitarian situation in Ituri province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, has taken a turn for the worse, with approximately 19,000 displaced individuals facing increased insecurity and risks. According to Damien Mama, UN Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Humanitarian Coordinator, multiple security incidents have been reported at the Kigonze site since September 20, forcing many families to flee in search of a safer environment. The UN envoy expressed deep concern over the deteriorating situation.
The Kigonze site, located in Bunia, Ituri province, hosts a significant number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have already experienced immense hardship. Mama emphasized that sites hosting displaced persons must preserve their civilian and humanitarian character, ensuring that families who have lost everything can find safety and dignity. He called for any solution regarding the future of these families to be voluntary, safe, and dignified. The humanitarian coordinator is working closely with national and provincial authorities to guarantee protection and facilitate humanitarian response.
Insecurity at the Kigonze site has severely hindered humanitarian access, limiting the ability of organizations to assess needs, provide vital assistance, and ensure essential protection services. Mama reiterated his appeal for the protection of civilians and safe, unhindered humanitarian access. He also reaffirmed the commitment of the humanitarian community to support the efforts of authorities in favor of displaced persons. The situation in Ituri province remains a major concern, with over 1.1 million people displaced due to conflict and violence.
The Ituri province is also dealing with an ongoing Ebola outbreak, which adds complexity to the situation. The Kigonze site is one of the areas covered by the Ebola response efforts. The displacement of families and restrictions on access risk complicating epidemiological surveillance and efforts to control the outbreak. According to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the situation in Ituri province is particularly worrying, with continued violence and insecurity causing massive displacement of populations.
Displaced persons in Ituri province face numerous risks, while security constraints complicate humanitarian access to vulnerable populations. Mama's appeal for protection and dignity comes as the situation in Kigonze continues to deteriorate. The humanitarian coordinator is engaging in constructive dialogue with authorities to address the crisis. The UN and humanitarian partners are working to provide support to displaced persons and affected communities.
The crisis in Ituri province highlights the need for sustained humanitarian efforts and support. With over 373,000 people living in displacement sites, the situation requires immediate attention and action. The UN and humanitarian community are urging donors and partners to provide critical support to address the humanitarian needs in Ituri province. Efforts to address the root causes of displacement and promote durable solutions are also essential.
The humanitarian situation in Ituri province is expected to remain a major concern in the coming weeks and months. The UN and humanitarian partners will continue to work with authorities and affected communities to provide support and protection to displaced persons. The response efforts will focus on providing vital assistance, ensuring protection, and promoting durable solutions for those affected by the crisis.
Key points
- UN humanitarian coordinator Damien Mama appeals for safety and dignity for 19,000 displaced people in Kigonze, Ituri province.
- Insecurity at Kigonze site hampers humanitarian access, limiting ability to assess needs and provide vital assistance.
- Situation in Ituri province complicated by ongoing Ebola outbreak, with risks to epidemiological surveillance and outbreak control.
