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U.N. reports fresh clashes in eastern DRC, displacement and attacks on health and schools
Summary
U.N. humanitarian officials told the briefing that renewed fighting in South Kivu and North Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo has caused casualties, displacement and damage to health facilities and schools, undermining access to basic services.
U.N. humanitarian colleagues reported continued clashes in parts of South Kivu province that are affecting civilians and aid operations, the U.N. spokesperson said. Local authorities in Walungu territory reported at least 10 civilian casualties from recent fighting and forced people to flee; the briefing said violence has disrupted economic activity and humanitarian services.
Why it matters: Attacks on health centers and schools and repeated cycles of displacement are eroding access to basic services in several territories and creating urgent protection and humanitarian needs.
The briefing said Minova Hospital in Kalehe territory has reported multiple cases of sexual and physical assault in recent days, and that in Fizi territory intense fighting last week led to looting of health centers and the burning of several schools. In North Kivu, partners reported more than 20,000 people returned to villages in Masisi territory between February and March, according to local authorities, but partners emphasized that exact numbers require verification.
In Walikale territory, humanitarian partners reported cycles of displacement and precarious returns, noting that people who returned after clashes in Kibati on April 13 were forced to flee again during renewed violence last week. The U.N. called on parties in Kivu provinces to uphold obligations under international humanitarian law, to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, and to ensure safe and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid.
