DRC: Aid deliveries resuming around Goma after days of disruption

STOCKHOLM -- Over the weekend, UNHCR and our partners were able to resume assistance to internally displaced people in 12 sites around Goma, including Mugunga 3 – with handouts of WFP food, as well as soap and water containers.

The aid deliveries began on Saturday, and the aim is to reach 110,000 people. This is the first large-scale aid delivery since Goma was captured by the M23 rebel movement on November 20th.

Many of the displaced are telling us they intend returning soon to their home areas, and for this reason the initial aid deliveries are three-day rations only. Further assistance is being planned for areas of return.

North of Goma, in Rutshuru territory, 2,000 people have already spontaneously returned to their homes. In the coming days, exploratory visits to ensure security conditions prevailing in the return areas of Rutshuru will be organized. Assistance with transportation will prioritize people who are in poor health, and pregnant women. Four trucks will be used.

The recent crisis has generated more than 140,000 new IDPs who have settled in the city of Goma, mainly in spontaneous sites and the Mugunga 3 camp. The displacement situation remains fluid with some IDPs moving towards Goma while others are leaving.

Many IDPs need shelter and clean water. Sanitary conditions remain a major challenge due to the lack of toilets and water supply points. Some cases of vomiting, diarrhoea and respiratory infections have already been recorded. These respiratory infections are due to the fact that these people have no shelter and are sleeping in the open under the rains.

Photo: These children in Mugunga III seem cheerful, but the situation in the camp is alarming.
© UNHCR / F.Noy