Around 78,000 children have fled their homes in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo in the past week due to escalating violence. The clashes between the DRC Armed Forces and M23 rebels have displaced over 150,000 individuals, with children making up more than half of those affected.
Amid the chaos, parents have reported instances of children becoming separated from their families due to the violence, although the exact number of missing children remains unclear. Save the Children has expressed grave concern over the use of heavy artillery, drones, and explosives in Eastern DRC, which have resulted in civilian casualties and widespread destruction of vital infrastructure.
Recent reports from local media indicate that the conflict has claimed the lives of 19 people and left 27 others injured, including three young girls. The violence has had devastating consequences, with a market being struck on February 7, and munitions landing dangerously close to schools and hospitals. As a result, all schools in the affected area have been forced to close their doors.
Save the Children, which has been operational in the DRC since 1994, has intensified its humanitarian response efforts to address the urgent needs arising from the conflict. The organization is focused on supporting existing care systems, training local leaders and communities to prevent exploitation and abuse, and ensuring access to healthcare through the deployment of mobile clinics. Additionally, Save the Children is working to facilitate children’s access to education by constructing classrooms, training teachers, and distributing essential learning materials.