More than 100,000 people have escaped to neighboring countries as violence between government forces and M23 rebels escalates in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the United Nations reported on Friday. The ongoing conflict has led to a worsening humanitarian crisis, with thousands in urgent need of assistance.
Aid Efforts Struggle Amid Funding Shortages
Eujin Byun, spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), warned that aid operations are at risk due to financial constraints.
“Severe funding shortages are crippling humanitarian efforts in eastern DRC and beyond. Thousands lack life-saving assistance, and the crisis is on the verge of catastrophe,” Byun stated at a UN press briefing in Geneva.
In under three months, more than 100,000 Congolese have fled to nearby nations. Many are struggling to find food, medical care, and shelter.
The situation is particularly dire in Goma, North Kivu’s capital. All shelters that previously housed 400 displaced people have been destroyed. Aid organizations are trying to rebuild, but resources remain scarce. As a result, thousands are left without safe housing.
M23 Rebels Gain Ground in Eastern DRC
Fighting in eastern DRC has intensified since early 2025. M23 rebels have captured key areas, including Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, and Goma in North Kivu.
Since January, the conflict has displaced nearly one million people. At least 7,000 have died due to the ongoing violence. Neighboring countries are also struggling to accommodate the growing number of refugees.
M23 was formed after the collapse of a peace agreement signed on March 23, 2009. The group claims the Congolese government failed to uphold its commitments. Its fighters are primarily ethnic Tutsis, the same community as Rwandan President Paul Kagame. This link has fueled regional tensions and raised concerns over foreign involvement in the conflict.
As violence spreads, humanitarian groups are calling for urgent international aid. Without immediate support, the crisis could worsen, leaving thousands more at risk.