What's happened
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is experiencing a humanitarian crisis, with 28 million people facing acute hunger due to escalating violence and economic instability. The World Food Programme (WFP) warns of a funding shortfall that threatens food aid for millions, particularly in conflict-affected eastern regions.
What's behind the headline?
Current Situation
- Acute Hunger: 28 million people in DRC are facing acute hunger, with 3.9 million in emergency conditions.
- Conflict Impact: The ongoing violence, particularly in eastern provinces, has disrupted food production and trade routes.
- Funding Crisis: The WFP faces a 40% funding drop for 2025, jeopardizing emergency feeding programs.
Future Outlook
- Humanitarian Needs: The WFP requires $399 million to sustain operations and assist 6.4 million people in DRC.
- International Response: Urgent action is needed from the international community to prevent a full-scale catastrophe as hunger levels continue to rise.
What the papers say
According to Al Jazeera, the DRC has seen a resurgence of violence, particularly from M23 rebels, leading to significant humanitarian challenges. The World Food Programme (WFP) highlights a dire funding crisis, stating that 'we are facing a funding cliff with life-threatening consequences' (All Africa). The IPC reports that 3.9 million people are in emergency hunger conditions, emphasizing the urgent need for international support to avert further deterioration (All Africa).
How we got here
The DRC has long struggled with political instability and armed conflict. Recent violence, particularly from the M23 rebel group, has exacerbated the humanitarian situation, displacing millions and increasing food insecurity.
Go deeper
- What are the main causes of the crisis in DRC?
- How is the international community responding to the situation?
- What can be done to help those affected in DRC?
More on these topics
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo, also known as Congo-Kinshasa, Zaire, DR Congo, DRC, the DROC, or simply the Congo, is a country located in Central Africa. It was formerly called Zaire.
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The World Food Programme is the food-assistance branch of the United Nations and the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting food security.
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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is a specialized agency of the United Nations that leads international efforts to defeat hunger and improve nutrition and food security.
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The M23 rebellion was an armed conflict in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of the Congo, that occurred between the March 23 Movement and government forces between 4 April 2012 and 7 November 2013.