As the conflict escalates in the DRC, the Catholic Church in Angola is gearing up to welcome fleeing refugees. Sister Carla Luísa Frei Bamberg highlights the Church’s readiness at border dioceses, amidst a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over four million people. The situation in eastern Congo remains dire, prompting urgent calls for support and empathy toward those in distress.
As conflict intensifies in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Catholic Church in Angola is prepared to support an influx of refugees. Sister Carla Luísa Frei Bamberg, the Executive Secretary of the Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerants (CEPAMI), announced that border dioceses like Uíge and Mbanza Congo are ready to facilitate the arrival of displaced individuals.
The conflict arises from tensions between Congolese armed forces and militant groups, notably the M23 rebels, which are exacerbated by the struggle for territorial control and resources in eastern Congo. As a result, over 400,000 individuals have been displaced recently, compounding the existing displacement crisis affecting over four million people.
Eyewitness accounts highlight the grim situation, with refugees like Melchisedeck Batumike describing Goma as “catastrophic”. He expressed concerns over communication issues and the safety of others caught in the conflict. Similarly, Dezonga Mapenzi, wounded in Goma, shared his ordeal of being shot and needing medical attention in South Kivu.
The M23 has urged the population to combat fear, but skepticism remains towards both insurgents and government forces, according to Johan Viljoen of the Denis Hurley Peace Institute. The residents of Goma are weary of constant strife and view the situation with mistrust, as they have seen various armed groups take control before.
In light of the situation, the Catholic Church is actively preparing to receive Congolese refugees as they escape the violence. Sister Bamberg stressed the Church’s commitment, stating that they aim to provide safety and support for those affected.
She emphasized the importance of treating incoming individuals not as intruders, but as brothers in need of assistance. Bamberg also called upon the Angolan populace to extend empathy and hospitality, recognizing the struggles refugees face as they seek safety.
While acknowledging the logistical challenges of sheltering refugees due to limited infrastructure, Bamberg stated the Church is working closely with other organizations to ensure readiness. She noted a lack of current data on refugee arrivals and indicated a potential delay before those affected might reach Angola.
Sister Bamberg urged the Angolan government to guarantee basic dignities for incoming refugees, including access to food, water, and shelter. The length of the border between Angola and the DRC, around 1,500 miles, complicates efforts to manage refugee inflows effectively.
Despite limited border control, which raises concerns over human rights, the Church remains dedicated to their mission of care. Bamberg highlighted that the current crises in Ukraine and the Middle East have strained international aid resources, further complicating humanitarian efforts for Congolese victims.
Regardless of these challenges, the Church, represented by Sister Bamberg, is focused on training pastoral agents in various dioceses to assist newly arrived refugees and ensure proper referrals to the relevant authorities.
The Catholic Church in Angola is preparing to support refugees fleeing the conflict in the DRC, emphasizing compassion and hospitality. Sister Bamberg highlights the need for infrastructure support, collaboration with authorities, and the challenges posed by limited international resources. Despite the complexities involved, the Church is committed to its mission of humanitarian care, aiming to offer dignity and safety to those affected by the turbulent situation.
Original Source: cruxnow.com
