Half a Million Flee in 60 Days as Congo Conflict Pushes Civilians to Brink

The World Food Programme warns that displaced people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo are nearing "utter desperation." An estimated 500,000 civilians have been forced from their homes. This mass displacement follows a major escalation of fighting in South Kivu province. The violence began in early December. The WFP, a United Nations agency, reports that new arrivals in already crowded camps lack everything. They need food, shelter, and healthcare. Ongoing conflict blocks aid delivery and prevents farming. The situation creates a severe hunger crisis. Many displaced people now rely entirely on humanitarian assistance to survive.