Stories from Goma · DR Congo

Authorities plan to close banks in areas controlled by the Politico Armé FCM23 group, specifically in the Kivu region. The decision aims to protect savers and cut off funding for rebel groups. A World Food Programme (WFP) annual report indicates this move will have a direct humanitarian cost. The specific scale of the humanitarian impact is being assessed by the WFP. G8 Education plans to close approximately 10% of its centers.

James Swan, the new head of the MONUSCO mission, has said the necessity of securing airspace in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The FSM-23 has requested an air bridge to supply isolated populations, with potential rotations from Goma, Kindu, Bunia, Kisangani, or Bujumbura. Swan noted that the use of drones and GPS-guided travel complicates airspace rights. The mission has not been present in the south since its withdrawal in June 2024.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has over 6 million displaced persons according to United Nations statistics. The UNHCR warns this figure could rise to 9 million by the end of 2026 if current conflict levels persist. Over 6 million people are currently suffering from acute malnutrition. One in four Congolese citizens is facing food insecurity. Most displaced individuals are located in the eastern part of the country. This figure is based on a report from a United Nations regional center for Western Europe. The data aggregates statistics from various UN agencies to provide a comprehensive assessment of the population. New UN data indicates the number of internally displaced persons in the DRC has risen to 6.4 million. The data highlights the ongoing scale of the humanitarian crisis within the nation's 113 million inhabitants.

Over 6 million people are currently displaced within the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The deployment aims to address the mental health impact on personnel facing ongoing security threats. Park officials have established a psychological support unit for eco-guards and civilian staff following a militant attack on the Loup-M.B. One female staff member in her 20s reported being forced from her home by rebel groups. Psychologist Benazir Kamangou is conducting evaluations for Coupemba park employees, including eco-guards, following attacks by rebel groups. The psychological support process involves listening to survivors before proceeding with formal assessments. Some staff members reported extreme trauma and various psychological disorders resulting from the incidents.