“A Race Against Time:” Fear Mounts as Violence Spreads and Humanitarian Aid Falls Critically Short in Eastern DRC
The humanitarian crisis in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is reaching staggering levels as violence and volatility threaten to engulf more communities. Critical infrastructure is under threat, markets are paralyzed, and humanitarian access is severely disrupted.
Just days after the fall of Goma, armed clashes accelerating toward Bukavu threaten to further destabilize an already fragile region, putting countless lives at risk.
Mercy Corps Country Director for the DRC, Rose Tchwenko, says:
“The capture of Goma has brought humanitarian operations to a standstill, cutting off a vital lifeline for aid delivery across eastern DRC. The airport remains closed, key supply routes are blocked, and civilians—along with aid workers, including our colleagues—have been trapped in their homes amidst the fighting, cut off from essential supplies, electricity, and internet, while thousands more are desperate for safe refuge. Although there are signs of reprieve in Goma after days of intense fighting, the need for shelter, food, water, medical supplies, and protection in the city remains overwhelming. We are now in a race against time to save lives.
“The escalation of violence toward Bukavu raises fears of even greater displacement, while the breakdown of humanitarian access is leaving entire communities stranded without support. This relentless cycle of displacement will likely generate new waves of humanitarian need as the humanitarian response is at a standstill.
“If the violence continues unchecked, this crisis will spiral further out of control. We are urgently calling for immediate action to protect civilians, ensure safe humanitarian access, and coordinate efforts to prevent further violence and suffering. It is our shared responsibility to act now—offering the support, resources, and solidarity needed to restore hope and rebuild the futures of millions of Congolese people.”
For more information, please contact:
- Grace Wairima Ndungu, Senior Africa Media & Communications Manager (based in Nairobi), at gndungu@mercycorps.org | Cell: +254 722 890551.
- Natalie Fath, Director of Communications (based on the East Coast, U.S.), at nfath@mercycorps.org.
- Our full media team is reachable at allmediarelations@mercycorps.org.