The WFP condemned the looting of food supplies in Bukavu due to advancing M23 rebels. About 7,000 tonnes of relief meant for vulnerable families were stolen, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis. The UN appeals for adherence to humanitarian law and emphasizes the need for effective African diplomacy to resolve ongoing conflicts in eastern DRC.
The UN World Food Programme (WFP) has condemned the looting of significant relief supplies in Bukavu, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following the advance of M23 rebels believed to be supported by Rwanda. In a statement, WFP highlighted that thousands of tonnes of food meant for vulnerable families were taken amidst a worsening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Looters made away with approximately 7,000 tonnes of essential food supplies intended for the most affected communities. As violence escalates and food accessibility declines, WFP remains prepared to resume aid efforts when it becomes safe. They have urged all conflict parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, which includes protecting civilians and aid workers.
The situation in eastern DRC intensifies as M23 forces gain ground, having captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, earlier this year. The ongoing conflict perpetuates a cycle of displacement and humanitarian need, with over 1.65 million people in South Kivu already displaced due to various causes.
Top UN aid official, Bruno Lemarquis, warned of the blocking of humanitarian routes, which poses a significant threat to ongoing aid operations in the mineral-rich area. He previously noted the dire humanitarian conditions even before the recent M23 offensive.
At a recent African Union Summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres raised alarms about the conflict’s regional implications. He called for diplomatic efforts to restore peace and emphasized the need for respect for the sovereignty of the DRC. He noted that while MONUSCO offers support, peacekeeping alone cannot resolve the ongoing conflict without a conducive peace environment.
Guterres pointed to the essential role of African diplomacy and collaboration to address the situation. He cited a summit by the South African Development Community in Tanzania, which resulted in a strategy aimed at facilitating an immediate ceasefire.
The looting of humanitarian supplies in Bukavu amid escalating violence highlights a critical humanitarian crisis in the DRC. The WFP’s condemnation reflects the urgency of the situation, where millions face food shortages and displacement. Diplomatic solutions, particularly African-led initiatives, are essential for regaining stability and addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.
Original Source: news.un.org
