The humanitarian situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to worsen significantly following cuts to US foreign aid, a government official warned on Monday.
Communications Minister Patrick Muyaya, speaking during a video conference, highlighted that 70% of humanitarian assistance in the region had been funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). With this support withdrawn, he cautioned that the already dire conditions would become even more severe.
“We need to ensure that Goma is accessible for humanitarian assistance. This is an urgent priority,” Muyaya stressed, urging for the reopening of Goma airport to facilitate aid deliveries. He also expressed concern over the security of children, noting that many between the ages of 13 and 18 were being systematically kidnapped.
The cuts follow a policy shift by the Trump administration, reportedly influenced by US billionaire Elon Musk, who heads the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The decision to shut down USAID operations both domestically and internationally has disrupted global aid programs, affecting non-governmental organizations and media outlets reliant on its funding.
Meanwhile, the M23 rebel group has expanded its territorial control since December, recently capturing the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu. Ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo has resulted in over 8,500 deaths and 5,700 injuries since January, according to Congolese Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba.
A recent explosion during an M23 rally in Bukavu left at least 16 people dead and more than 17 injured, further escalating tensions in the region.
Muyaya called on the international community to increase pressure on Rwanda, urging it to return to negotiations to find a resolution to the ongoing crisis. The DRC has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, leading to sanctions from the US and UK against Kigali over its alleged support.