Continuing violence in the North and South Kibhu in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to kill, injure and expel civilians, as the UN Humanitarian Agency (OCHA) Coordination Agency (OCHA) warns.
A fierce clash between local armed groups and the M23 rebels was reported in the town of Masisi Centre in North Kivu on Thursday.
Preliminary reports from ground partners show that at least two civilian deaths and multiple injuries, several people have been evacuated to Masisi General Hospital.
Meanwhile, many civilians continue to be restricted to their homes due to aggressive crossfires, reinforcing fear and limited access to basic needs and services.
“Frontline volatility and ongoing combat have made it impossible to make a comprehensive assessment,” Ocha said.
Despite international support, the armed groups have recently had significant benefits, particularly the M23 movement, many of which claim to defend the interests of the Tutchi in the Congolese, which has been exiled to Rwanda, reportedly supported by the Rwandan army. The militant Alliance Democrat Forces (ADF) also continues to operate in the region.
Provides life-saving assistance
In the eastern Masisi, which is permitted by security situations, UN partners provide significant assistance to the displaced and returned population.
Ocha said since yesterday, partners have distributed home and hygiene kits to more than 500 displaced people at the liquor gathering centre.
Additionally, 19 of the 24 water points of sake have been rehabilitated, regaining access to safe water for over 4,000 households.
Fresh clash at South Kivu
In South Kibhu, local armed groups collided with an M23 fighter jet, which again fought on Tuesday in Phyzi territory.
The violence hit the villages of Murima and Rusk – both already protecting thousands of displaced people – prompted a wave of forced evacuation.
Cholera outbreak
Meanwhile, in the southern state of Tanganyika, a rapidly escalating cholera outbreak is putting thousands of people at risk.
As of Wednesday, nine of the state’s 11 health zones had been affected, with over 1,450 confirmed cases since January and 27 deaths reported, reporting a six-fold increase compared to the same period last year.
UN health partners point out that access to safe water is severely restricted – affected areas have less than 20% coverage and inadequate medical capacity to effectively manage cases.
