The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a humanitarian crisis with increasing cases of cholera, Mpox, and measles. Ongoing violence and the suspension of USAID funding are undermining health services, putting millions at risk. Key areas are severely impacted, lacking access to clean water and medical supplies. Immediate action is necessary to prevent further outbreaks and protect vulnerable populations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is currently experiencing a surge in preventable diseases, notably cholera, Mpox, and measles. Oxfam’s local partners reported a significant increase in cholera cases by 326, Mpox by 269, and measles by 95 in North Kivu during the final week of February. This alarming trend underscores the deteriorating health situation in the region, exacerbated by ongoing violence and a suspension of USAID funding, which has weakened DRC’s already fragile health system.
In January alone, the nation recorded over 3,850 new cholera infections, resulting in 67 fatalities—an alarming threefold increase in deaths compared to December. Oxfam bases these estimates on data from the World Health Organization (WHO). The intensifying conflict and consequent lack of humanitarian support are severely hampering the country’s efforts to control the spread of these diseases, with critical infrastructure such as testing centers and hospitals being rendered non-functional.
Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam’s DRC Country Director, emphasizes the severity of the situation, noting, “This is turning into a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe. People are drinking water straight from contaminated rivers and springs because water tanks and sanitation facilities have been destroyed.” The collapse of hospitals and a lack of medical supplies have compounded the crisis, leaving individuals vulnerable to outbreaks.
The impact of USAID’s funding suspension is particularly dire, as 7.8 million internally displaced people (IDPs) face an increased risk of disease due to insufficient food, water, and shelter. Areas such as Kirotshe and Goma are experiencing the worst conditions; over 70 health facilities and testing centers in North Kivu are reported as completely destroyed, while operational facilities struggle to respond effectively to disease outbreaks.
Kamara Wabomundu, an employee of the CCLK/Bulimba Health Zone Central Office, echoed the sentiment of urgency, stating, “When our funding was cut, everything collapsed—we had no backup plan. Neither the hospitals nor the communities were prepared.” The lack of resources has forced communities to pay for care in dire economic circumstances.
Dr. Mangundu further highlighted the vital role USAID plays in DRC, stating, “USAID was the leading donor in DRC…The international community needs to understand that the systems are rapidly collapsing in DRC.” This rising humanitarian crisis is aggravated by the closure of banks and airports, which has hindered the distribution of emergency aid and escalated food prices, threatening the welfare of millions.
In summary, the DRC faces an urgent humanitarian crisis marked by increasing disease outbreaks due to collapsing health systems and insufficient support. The international community’s immediate action is imperative to prevent further loss of life among the most vulnerable populations.
The ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo poses serious health risks due to a rapid increase in preventable diseases such as cholera and Mpox, exacerbated by violence and a suspension of vital funding. The testimonies of local leaders and Oxfam representatives underscore the urgent need for international intervention to mitigate the humanitarian catastrophe. With millions affected, timely action is crucial in averting further tragedy among the vulnerable populations.
Original Source: www.oxfam.org.nz
