Displaced families in Mwenga territory, South Kivu, are facing worsening humanitarian conditions after fleeing clashes between the Congolese army, supported by Wazalendo fighters, and the AFC/M23 armed group. Local civil society leaders are now calling for the urgent establishment of a humanitarian corridor to assist affected households.

According to a report by Actualite.cd , displaced people from the chiefdom of Lwindi have sought refuge in Mwenga centre and surrounding areas.

However, reception capacities remain insufficient. Many families are reportedly spending nights in schools, churches, or under the open sky due to overcrowding.

Bienfait Fazili Mulonda Walubanda, coordinator of the civil society consultation framework of the Zalya Basin in the chiefdom of Wamuzimu, described the situation as critical. He stated that displaced households lack access to food, clean drinking water, hygiene kits, essential household items and healthcare services. Children, pregnant women and elderly persons are identified as the most vulnerable.

In response, civil society organizations are urging authorities and humanitarian partners to open a secure corridor to facilitate the delivery of emergency assistance. They also warn of increased risks, including exposure to disease and sexual violence, as families struggle to survive without basic necessities.

Fighting has been reported for several months in different chiefdoms of Mwenga territory, including Luhwinja, Basile, Burhinyi, Wamuzimu and Lwindi, contributing to repeated waves of displacement.

While no official announcement has yet been made regarding the establishment of a humanitarian corridor, local leaders stress that safe access for aid delivery remains essential to prevent further deterioration of conditions in the area.

Source: Actualite.cd