Displaced Persons with Disabilities in Eastern DRC Appeal for Urgent Humanitarian Aid

The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly the M23 rebellion's impact on North and South Kivu, has created a dire humanitarian crisis, especially for the most vulnerable populations. Displaced persons living with disabilities are facing unimaginable suffering, lacking basic necessities and essential support since fleeing their homes.

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Nous sommes venus à Kinshasa pour plaider afin que les autorités puissent subvenir aux besoins de ces déplacés, en particulier les plus vulnérables, notamment les personnes à mobilité réduite, qui ne peuvent rien faire seules.

A delegation from the Association for the Voice of Persons with Disabilities for Autonomy and Development (VHAD) has traveled to Kinshasa, the nation's capital, to bring this critical situation to the attention of national authorities and humanitarian partners. Their plea is urgent: these individuals, many with mobility challenges, are struggling to survive in precarious conditions, with little to no assistance provided since their displacement to areas like Beni, Butembo, Lubero, and Oicha.

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La situation est catastrophique. Certains déplacés vivant avec handicap dorment encore à la belle étoile.

Pierre Bandu, the Secretary-General of VHAD, described the situation as catastrophic. He highlighted that host families are overwhelmed and lack the resources to continue supporting the displaced. Tragically, a man with a disability has already died due to a lack of medication and adequate care facilities. The VHAD delegation's presence in Kinshasa underscores the severity of the crisis and the desperate need for immediate humanitarian intervention to prevent further loss of life and alleviate the suffering of thousands.

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Nous lançons un cri d’alarme à tous ceux qui ont les moyens -autorités, humanitaires, bienfaiteurs et personnes de bonne volonté -pour qu’ils nous viennent en aide.