WFP Condemns Looting of Humanitarian Supplies in Bukavu Amid DRC Crisis
The WFP condemned the looting of 7,000 tonnes of food aid in Bukavu, DRC, by M23 rebels, worsening the humanitarian crisis. With ongoing violence obstructing aid access and displacing 1.65 million people, UN leaders call for African diplomatic solutions to restore peace and respect for humanitarian law in the region.
The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) condemned the looting of approximately 7,000 tonnes of humanitarian supplies in Bukavu, Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following the incursion of M23 rebels, who reportedly faced minimal resistance. The WFP stated that these food supplies were intended to assist vulnerable families amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis.
The looting has exacerbated the region’s instability, as access to essential food is increasingly hindered by the ongoing violence. The WFP expressed its readiness to resume aid operations to the most vulnerable populations when it is deemed safe. The organization called upon all conflict parties to adhere to international humanitarian laws to protect civilians and humanitarian workers.
M23 forces have continued to advance their position in Eastern DRC, having recently seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu province. The region has been marred by violence and the presence of numerous armed groups for decades, resulting in the displacement of hundreds of thousands of individuals.
Bruno Lemarquis, the leading UN aid official in DRC, highlighted a dire situation where humanitarian access is severely compromised due to blocked aid routes. He underscored that prior to the recent M23 activities, the humanitarian conditions in South Kivu were already critical, with around 1.65 million individuals displaced.
Additionally, UN Secretary-General António Guterres warned of the potential for regional conflict escalation and advocated for African diplomatic interventions. He emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire and that the sovereignty of DRC be respected. Moreover, he acknowledged that while MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping force, would continue its supportive role, an effective resolution requires substantial diplomatic engagement.
The ongoing crisis in Eastern DRC is exacerbated by the looting of humanitarian supplies, significantly impacting vulnerable populations. With M23 rebels gaining ground and aid routes compromised, the situation calls for urgent international and regional diplomatic efforts to restore stability and address the humanitarian needs of millions displaced. It is imperative that all parties involved respect humanitarian laws to prevent further deterioration of the crisis and ensure protection for aid workers and affected civilians. Only through effective African diplomacy and collective efforts can a sustainable resolution to the conflict be achieved.
Original Source: news.un.org
