The Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has raised alarms over the escalating displacement crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where armed conflict has surged in recent days.
Jean Kaseya, the Director General of Africa CDC, highlighted the urgent need to address the situation, stating that the displacement in Goma poses a significant challenge to both national and regional health security. He emphasized the importance of maintaining calm in the area to ensure the resumption of essential health services, disease surveillance, and vaccination efforts for vulnerable populations.
Africa CDC has deployed 200 staff members to Goma to assist with the health crisis, underscoring that a return to stability is crucial to prevent potential disease outbreaks that could affect neighboring countries.
The violence in Goma intensified last week when the M23 rebel group launched a major offensive. While the DRC government accuses Rwanda of supporting the rebels with troops, Kigali has denied the claims. Regional leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire as the violence has resulted in significant casualties. Reports suggest that nearly 100 people have died in the past week, although the exact toll remains unconfirmed.
Thousands of displaced individuals, including staff from international organizations like the UN and World Bank, have fled to Rwanda. Rwanda has also reported fatalities due to cross-border fire. The conflict has claimed at least 17 peacekeepers’ lives since the onset of the latest fighting.