Over the past four months, renewed violence and insecurity have had devastating impacts on the people of eastern DRC, killing thousands and forcing families already traumatised by displacement to flee once again. This resurgence of conflict, driven by the struggle to control mineral-rich land, has left more than 21 million people in need of humanitarian assistance since the conflict began. External factors like the cuts to aid from the US and the rapid shut down of some vital lifesaving projects in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), are further exacerbating the ongoing humanitarian situation.
In neighboring Burundi, which is currently hosting over 65,000 refugees from the DRC, 80 church leaders from across the country convened last month to discuss major issues affecting both their nation and the wider region.
Desire Majambere, Tearfund’s Country Director for Burundi, said, “The way we respond to refugees will sow the seeds for our shared future and that’s why we must practice hospitality. The church can lead the way. That is why we have gathered church leaders to begin tackling the significant challenges impacting our nation.
“Tearfund is providing emergency relief for 714 Congolese refugee households living in camps in Burundi. Together with our local partners including Help Chanel Burundi and the Anglican Diocese of Bujumbura we have provided food, blankets, cooking utensils, hygiene kits and shelter support including tarpaulins. In particular, we have ensured that protection kits have been distributed to support the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable individuals, especially women and children. The need is great. Many people we met said the help came just in time. Some were going days without proper meals or safe shelter.”
Right Reverend Martin Blaise Nyaboho, Bishop of Makamaba Diocese, Anglican Church and former Archbishop of the Anglican Church in Burundi, said:
“The role of the church is to bring security where there is none, be that an insecurity of mind or body. Being a host community is challenging, especially when we have our own struggles.
“The conflict in eastern DRC has forced many refugees to seek safety in Burundi. We understand the hardship of having to flee your home and country, in 1972 many Burundians also became refugees. For those who have recently fled DRC, we have opened our doors and hearts to welcome these refugees, and the church has been actively involved in providing support and comfort through medical care, giving food and offering assistance.
“We urgently appeal to the international community, regardless of faith or belief, to extend their assistance to these refugees from DRC. The church remains steadfast in prayer and advocacy, calling for the restoration of peace in DRC so that these individuals can return home.
“My message to those in power is simple: you have a divine mandate to use your power to build and restore peace in our communities. Remember that those who are suffering are your brothers, mothers, sisters and fathers. Treat them as you would wish to be treated. May God bless Africa and restore peace to our communities.”
To donate to Tearfund’s appeal please visit: tearfund.org/DRC
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For further information: email Maddie Gordon at [email protected]. For urgent out of hours media enquiries please call 07929 339813.
Notes to editors
- Tearfund is a Christian charity that partners with churches in more than 50 of the world’s poorest countries. We tackle poverty through sustainable development, responding to disasters and challenging injustice. We believe an end to extreme poverty is possible. Tearfund is also a member of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC). For more information about the work of Tearfund, please visit www.tearfund.org.
