In a tragic incident highlighting the perilous conditions faced by humanitarian workers in eastern Congo, two staff members of the aid organization Tearfund were killed in an attack on their convoy in Butembo city, North Kivu province.
The area has been embroiled in conflict between armed rebels and Congolese security forces, with over 120 armed groups vying for control of the region’s resources, particularly gold.
The attack, which occurred on Sunday, underscores the ongoing threats faced by aid groups and local residents alike.
According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs in Congo, more than 170 security incidents have targeted humanitarian workers recently, resulting in fatalities and abductions.
Bruno Lemarquis, the humanitarian coordinator for Congo, condemned the violence, emphasising the critical role aid workers play in providing assistance amid significant humanitarian needs.
The situation in North Kivu has deteriorated further in recent months, exacerbated by clashes between rebels and security forces, including a recent mortar attack that claimed two lives at a South African military base involved in peacekeeping efforts.
Among the rebel groups active in the region, the M23, reportedly linked to neighboring Rwanda, has seized control of key towns, underscoring the complex dynamics and challenges facing efforts to stabilize the area.
The killing of aid workers has prompted renewed calls for enhanced protection measures to safeguard those delivering essential humanitarian aid to affected communities in eastern Congo.
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