Congo to Exceed 400,000 Displaced People in 2025: UN Raises Alarm

 Kinshasa: The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has sounded the alarm as violence continues to ravage the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The ongoing hostilities have displaced over 400,000 people since the beginning of 2025, with the crisis edging closer to major urban areas.

In a statement released, the UNHCR expressed “grave concern” for the safety and well-being of civilians and internally displaced people (IDPs) in the South Kivu and North Kivu provinces, regions already hosting 4.6 million displaced individuals. The deteriorating situation poses a significant challenge to humanitarian aid delivery, as conflict intensifies between government forces and M23 rebels.

Clashes Rock North Kivu

Violent confrontations between the Congolese military and the M23 insurgents erupted in Sake and nearby villages in North Kivu province on Friday. The town of Sake, considered the government’s final line of defense for Goma, the provincial capital, was shaken by loud explosions.

The UNHCR reported that humanitarian corridors linking Goma, Sake, and Kalehe have been closed due to the escalation, leaving the region without critical supplies. Hospitals in the area are struggling to cope with the influx of injured civilians, while displaced residents live in constant fear of shelling and violence.

Amid the turmoil, foreign embassies have urged their nationals to evacuate North Kivu, citing the worsening security situation.

Military Response and UN Appeal

Guillaume Njike Kaiko, the DRC military spokesperson for North Kivu, stated on Friday that efforts to reclaim M23-occupied Sake are underway. “The enemy’s advance toward Goma has been halted, and we urge the population to remain calm. Our forces are fully engaged on the front lines, and peace will be restored,” Kaiko told Xinhua news agency.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned the renewed M23 offensive, which violates the ceasefire agreement reached in August 2024. In a statement released Thursday, Guterres called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging the rebels to withdraw from occupied areas and uphold the truce. He highlighted the devastating toll on civilians and warned of the potential for broader regional conflict.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The ongoing clashes have exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation. Displaced civilians in Goma and surrounding areas are living under constant threat, with limited access to food, medical aid, and shelter. Airports and border crossings remain operational, but the closure of key routes has isolated affected regions from critical humanitarian assistance.

As the crisis deepens, the UNHCR and other organizations continue to call for urgent international support to address the growing needs of displaced populations. The international community must act swiftly to prevent further loss of life and to restore peace in one of the world’s most volatile regions.

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