North Kivu Displacement Crisis Deepens: Over 900,000 Affected by Conflict and Disaster
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A surge in violence and natural disasters has triggered a massive displacement crisis in North Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo, with over 900,000 people either newly displaced or returning to precarious conditions between March and June 2025. The escalating humanitarian situation is placing immense strain on local resources and raising concerns about the long-term stability of the region.
Mounting Displacement Figures
according to a recent report from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), more than 300,000 individuals were newly displaced within North Kivu during the four-month period. Together, approximately 690,000 people attempted to return to their homes, creating a total affected population exceeding 900,000.These movements are primarily driven by the combined impact of ongoing armed conflicts and devastating natural disasters.
Territories Most Affected
The territories of Masisi, Rutshuru, and Lubero are bearing the brunt of the crisis.repeated offensives by the M23 rebel group, coupled with clashes involving the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), have forced civilians to flee their communities in search of safety. The situation is especially dire in Walikale and Rutshuru, where ongoing fighting has caused multiple instances of displacement for the same populations.
Why is this happening? The crisis stems from a resurgence of conflict led by the M23 rebel group, alongside the impact of natural disasters like flooding and landslides. These factors combine to create an environment of extreme insecurity, forcing people from their homes.
who is affected? Over 900,000 people in North Kivu are affected, including both newly displaced individuals and those returning to damaged or unsafe homes. The most impacted territories are Masisi, Rutshuru, Lubero, and Walikale. Vulnerable populations, including women and children, are disproportionately impacted.
Strain on Host Communities
A significant majority – 83% – of those displaced have found refuge with host families, demonstrating the remarkable resilience and generosity of local communities. However, this reliance on host families is testing the limits of their capacity to provide adequate support. “Local capacities are being stretched to the breaking point,” a senior official stated, highlighting the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance.
Precarious Returns and Insecurity
While the return of nearly 700,000 people may appear positive, the reality on the ground is far more complex. Returns remain deeply precarious, hampered by persistent insecurity and the saturation of reception areas.Many returnees are finding their homes damaged or destroyed, and the ongoing threat of violence prevents them
What is being done? The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian affairs (OCHA) is coordinating the humanitarian response, providing aid and advocating for increased support. However, the scale of the crisis requires a sustained and concerted effort from international donors and humanitarian organizations.
How did it end? As of June 2025, the crisis remains ongoing. There is no definitive end in sight,as the underlying causes of conflict and displacement have not been resolved. The situation is expected to worsen without increased humanitarian assistance and a commitment to addressing the root causes of instability.
