Concern Worldwide calls for protection of civilians in DRC

Concern Worldwide calls on all sides of the conflict in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to ensure civilians are protected and humanitarian actors can continue their work.

In recent weeks over 400,000 people have fled to the city of Goma to escape the escalation in the conflict.

“Many of those were already living in makeshift displacement camps and face their second, third or fourth displacement fleeing conflict,” Concern’s Country Director in DRC, Antoine Sagot-Priez, said.

The conflict has now spread to Goma. The city’s two million inhabitants have been without electricity or internet for the last three days and all exit routes are blocked.

“Concern staff are still in Goma and intend to stay to support the humanitarian response. Our team are currently sheltering from the conflict but intend to recommence work as soon as it is safe to do so,” Mr Sagot-Priez said.

Concern operates a water treatment plant on the outskirts of Goma which provides over 230,000 people a day with access to clean drinking water.

“This work is vital. Without it, people will be without drinking water and the risk of cholera outbreaks and other deadly diseases is extremely high,” he said. 

Concern calls on all actors to support humanitarian access to affected communities.