In recent months, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has witnessed a worsening humanitarian crisis, with a mass exodus further deteriorating the living conditions of an already forgotten population. The latest surge in violence in North Kivu, which erupted in March 2022, has forced 1.2 million people to flee their homes, many seeking refuge in and around the provincial capital, Goma.

The influx of internally displaced persons (IDPs) into Goma has exacerbated the urgent demand for essential services. The overcrowded IDP camps have also become hotspots for severe cases of sexual violence, particularly targeting women and girls, compounding the dire situation on the ground. Recent events such as pandemics, climate change, and the war in Ukraine, have further aggravated the situation, making conditions even worse for vulnerable populations.

Pope Francis has been a spokesman for the humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo, heartily advocating the need for humanitarian aid and peace in the region. Through his numerous visits and inspiring public speeches, he has promoted the need for international solidarity and collective support for the Congolese people. His words echo the principles that drive Caritas’ work in the region, solidifying the call for justice and compassion, and implementing efforts to unburden the physical and moral pain felt by millions.

Through its tireless work, Caritas is a beacon of hope for victims of the daily violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). For decades, the organization has been providing sustainable reconstruction assistance, as well as delivering immediate humanitarian aid for survival. Currently 150,000 people are assisted by Caritas Goma, which focuses on the areas most affected by displacement and violence, particularly the North Kivu province.

In this region, the need for basic necessities such as food, shelter, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) has increased due to the growing number of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Caritas Goma has played a substantial role in supporting these needs by taking over various WASH facilities from other NGOs to supply potable water and preserve latrine blocks in IDP camps. Over 1.2 million litres of water per day are provided by Caritas Goma, a figure that covers one-third of the water needs in the six main camps, and includes the rehabilitation of municipal piping systems and water transport.

Caritas Goma is also deeply dedicated to health and protection services for the most vulnerable groups, such as children, victims of sexual violence, pregnant women, and nursing mothers. The need for medical support is crucial in these areas, where large numbers of families, often headed by women, struggle for their own survival and that of their loved ones. Since 2004, the organization has been able to reintegrate 12,400 former child soldiers, demonstrating a deep commitment to long-term recovery and subsequent social stability.

Beyond immediate aid, Caritas Goma is highly engaged in development projects that focus on long-term sustainability. The most notable initiatives include the former BMZ-SEWOH project in Bukombo and the project in Kibabi, supported by the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart. Despite the difficulties of the ongoing conflict, these projects successfully aim to alleviate the food crisis by providing WASH, non-food items, and protection, benefiting thousands of families.

The “Justice and Peace” Department of Caritas Goma plays a primary role in the organizational development of inter-religious forums and grassroots committees. They are committed to addressing conflict factors such as the politicization of ethnicity, hostilities over resources, and access to land. Their goal involves addressing low-threshold conflicts in villages to prevent aggression and ensure that perpetrators of violence are justly punished. Sadly, a large number of victims do not press charges for fear of even heavier repercussions.

Caritas Goma’s assistance also extends to more remote villages, such as Leya, where the situation is equally desperate. Being more marginalized, residents here have been cut off from regular supplies. Working with local leaders and community members, Caritas Goma is distributing food, drinking water, medical kits, and other essentials to meet the immediate needs of the inhabitants. A crucial issue in these areas is the shortage, or total lack of health facilities. Mobile medical teams therefore provide vaccinations, counseling and distribute medicines, as well as assisting in rebuilding not only health but also school infrastructure, trying to restore a sense of security and normalcy. The support given to the community in this village, shows how the organization’s commitment extends to the most isolated communities.