Angola’s Catholic Church Prepared to Support Congolese Refugees Amid Conflict

The Catholic Church in Angola is ready to welcome refugees from the Democratic Republic of Congo due to escalating conflict. Sister Carla Luísa Frei Bamberg indicates preparation and support for incoming refugees, despite challenges such as limited resources and international aid strains. The Church urges the Angolan populace to extend hospitality and empathy to those fleeing violence.

Amid escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Catholic Church in Angola is poised to assist refugees fleeing the violence. Sister Carla Luísa Frei Bamberg, the Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants (CEPAMI), highlighted the Church’s readiness to offer support in border dioceses, particularly in Uíge and Mbanza Congo.

The ongoing clashes between Congolese security forces and the M23 rebels, who are supported by Rwanda, stem from historical territorial disputes and competition for mineral resources in eastern Congo. Recent reports confirmed that M23 fighters captured Bukavu, receiving a mixed response from the local population, many of whom are weary of successive conflicts.

The fighting in Goma has led to the displacement of more than 400,000 individuals, adding to the over four million already affected. Internally displaced persons (IDs) currently number around 800,000, and testimonies from those fleeing the violence reveal the dire realities they face. Melchisedeck Batumike described the situation as “catastrophic,” while Dezonga Mapenzi, who was injured, recounted his harrowing experience seeking care.

As various groups cross borders into Rwanda and Angola, the Catholic Church is actively preparing to receive Congolese refugees. Sister Bamberg urged empathy and hospitality from the Angolan populace toward these individuals, emphasizing their shared humanity and the need to support those in distress.

While acknowledging the logistical challenges posed by limited resources, Sister Bamberg reiterated the Church’s commitment to welcoming refugees. She expressed concern over the lack of statistical data regarding incoming refugees and urged the Angolan government to provide essential resources such as food and shelter upon their arrival.

With a lengthy border of approximately 1,500 miles between Angola and the DRC, managing refugee influx poses significant challenges. Sister Bamberg noted the lack of stringent border control, which complicates the situation and could lead to human rights violations.

The ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East have also strained international humanitarian resources, complicating aid efforts for those affected by the DRC conflict. Despite these obstacles, the Church is focused on fulfilling its mission to aid refugees, with plans for training pastoral agents equipped to assist those seeking sanctuary from the turmoil.

The Catholic Church in Angola is preparing to support refugees from the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo, emphasizing the need for empathy and dignity. Sister Bamberg highlights the Church’s readiness and plans to provide essential support amid rising refugee numbers, all while addressing the logistical challenges and call for government cooperation. The Church remains committed to its humanitarian mission despite the strain on resources due to global crises.

Original Source: cruxnow.com