UN Alerts World to Worsening Hunger Crisis in Eastern DR Congo
The United Nations has issued an urgent warning about a deepening hunger crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where millions face severe food shortages due to conflict, displacement, and economic collapse. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) reports over 25 million Congolese are food insecure, with eastern provinces like North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri hardest hit.
Catastrophic Hunger Amid Relentless Conflict
Eastern DRC remains a conflict hotspot, with armed groups, ethnic violence, and military operations displacing millions. The WFP estimates nearly 6 million people are in emergency-level food insecurity (IPC Phase 4), facing extreme hunger and malnutrition.
“Children are dying daily from starvation,” a UN spokesperson said. “Families are eating leaves and roots to survive.” Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children under five has surged, with many at risk of death without immediate treatment.
Root Causes: War, Displacement, and Economic Collapse
The crisis stems from:
– Violence & Displacement: Over 5.7 million people are internally displaced, unable to farm or access markets.
– Economic Instability: Inflation and the plummeting Congolese franc make food unaffordable.
– Recent Escalation: Fighting between the Congolese army and M23 rebels has forced hundreds of thousands to flee, worsening shortages.
Humanitarian Efforts Overwhelmed
Despite UN and NGO efforts, aid delivery is hindered by:
– Access Restrictions: Conflict blocks aid routes.
– Funding Gaps: The WFP needs $728 million but has received only a fraction.
– Overstretched Clinics: Medical facilities lack supplies to treat malnutrition.
“Without urgent funding, we’ll have to cut rations,” a WFP official warned.
Global Action Needed to Avert Famine
The UN urges:
– Increased Aid Funding: To prevent famine.
– Political Solutions: Lasting peace is key to ending the crisis.
“This is both a humanitarian and political emergency,” a UN official stressed.
What’s Next for Eastern DRC?
Without immediate intervention, hunger will worsen. Advocates call for:
– More International Support
– Conflict Resolution Efforts
The world must act now to save millions from starvation.
