The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has expressed deep concern following a tragic bomb explosion at a displaced people’s camp in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), issuing a strong statement condemning the incident.
Grant Leaity, UNICEF’s representative in the DRC, voiced shock and dismay at the explosion, which claimed lives and caused injuries in a place meant to provide refuge for families fleeing violence.
“It is devastating that innocent civilians, including children, have fallen victim to violence in what should have been a sanctuary,” remarked Leaity.
He called upon all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians, particularly vulnerable children. Additionally, Leaity urged the Congolese government to take decisive action against the perpetrators and bolster safeguards for children and their families.
The explosion occurred late on Monday at the Zaina camp for displaced people on the outskirts of Sake in North Kivu Province, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation in the region.
Recent months have witnessed a surge in fighting across Eastern DRC, resulting in widespread displacement and escalating humanitarian needs. The influx of displaced individuals in North Kivu in January 2024 surpassed previous records, underscoring the magnitude of the crisis.
According to UNICEF’s latest report, the number of displaced people in North Kivu Province has now reached a staggering 1.1 million, highlighting the urgent need for coordinated efforts to address the unfolding humanitarian catastrophe.