Escalating Health Crisis in DRC Due to Violence and Funding Cuts

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing a severe increase in preventable diseases, escalating due to violence and USAID funding cuts. Cholera cases have surged, with critical infrastructure destroyed, leaving millions without access to clean water or health care. Urgent international intervention is needed to address this evolving humanitarian crisis.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing a surge in preventable diseases, particularly cholera, Mpox, and measles, with significant increases reported in North Kivu during late February. Oxfam’s partners noted a rise in cholera cases by 326, Mpox by 269, and measles by 95. In January, cholera infections exceeded 3,850, resulting in 67 deaths—a significant rise from the previous month, as calculated from WHO data.

The deteriorating security situation and recent suspension of USAID funding are exacerbating DRC’s already fragile health system, leaving millions vulnerable to diseases like cholera. The ongoing conflict and violence have compromised control over these outbreaks. Lacking essential testing facilities and hospitals, the destruction of vital infrastructure, particularly in displacement camps, is further complicating efforts to manage the situation.

Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam DRC Country Director, emphasized the dire humanitarian crisis, noting that people are resorting to drinking contaminated water due to the destruction of water and sanitation facilities. He urged that the situation will worsen as the health system continues to collapse, leading to rampant cholera.

The suspension of USAID-funded initiatives poses immediate risks to 7.8 million internally displaced people who are already struggling to access food, clean water, and shelter. Vulnerable locations such as Kirotshe and Goma are facing severe shortages of clean water as over 70 health facilities in North Kivu have been irreparably damaged.

Kamara Wabomundu, affiliated with the CCLK/Bulimba Health Zone Central Office, highlighted that the health facility was entirely reliant on humanitarian support, which has now been cut, leaving it unprepared and requesting payments from patients who cannot afford basic necessities. This situation reflects that without adequate funding, the crisis will continue to escalate.

Dr. Mangundu reiterated the importance of immediate international action, stating that the rapid collapse of essential systems in DRC poses a critical threat to lives. The closure of banks and airports has further impeded the delivery of emergency aid, causing food prices to soar out of reach for the local population.

The ongoing violence and suspension of essential funding by USAID in the Democratic Republic of Congo are leading to a humanitarian disaster characterized by a surge in preventable diseases. The lack of infrastructure, testing centers, and health facilities further exacerbates the crisis, leaving millions vulnerable. Immediate international attention and action are imperative to prevent further loss of life amid a collapsing health care system.

Original Source: www.oxfam.org.nz