Supporting Displaced Persons in Goma, DR Congo
In November 2022, armed conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) forced hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes, seeking refuge in Goma and surrounding areas. Among them were thousands who sought shelter at the Don Bosco Ngangi site, a designated area within the city. This case study examines the humanitarian crisis faced by these displaced persons and highlights the critical needs and ongoing efforts to provide support.
Challenge
NEHEMA The displaced persons at Don Bosco Ngangi faced a multitude of challenges, including:
Inadequate shelter: makeshift shelters made of tarps offered little protection from the elements, leading to widespread illness.
Limited access to clean water: severe water shortages created significant public health risks.
Food insecurity: insufficient food aid, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
High rates of malnutrition among children.
Widespread disease due to poor sanitation and hygiene.
Mental health impacts: trauma from the conflict, including sexual violence, led to significant psychological distress.
Vulnerability of Women and Children: high rates of single-headed households led by women.
Lack of access to education for children.
Increased risk of exploitation and abuse for women and girls.
Observations
The humanitarian crisis in Goma underscores the urgent need for coordinated and effective responses to displacement situations. HoReSo's efforts demonstrate the importance of:
Rapid needs assessments: to accurately identify the most pressing needs of affected populations.
Multi-sectoral approaches: to address the complex needs of displaced persons, including food, shelter, health, and mental health.
Community engagement: to ensure that assistance is culturally appropriate and effectively addresses the needs of the affected communities.
HoReSo remains committed to supporting the displaced persons in Goma and advocating for a more comprehensive and sustainable response to this ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Proposed Actions
Detailed data was collected on the demographics, needs, and vulnerabilities of the displaced population. This data informed the development of targeted interventions.
Resource Mobilization:
HoReSo actively sought funding and partnerships to support its response efforts. Collaboration with other humanitarian organizations ensured a more coordinated and effective approach.
Program Delivery:
Food distribution programs were established to address immediate food needs.
Counseling sessions were conducted by trained professionals to provide support to individuals and families experiencing trauma.
Hygiene and sanitation awareness campaigns were implemented to improve living conditions within the camp.
Improved access to food:
Food distribution programs helped to alleviate hunger and improve the nutritional status of vulnerable populations.
Enhanced shelter and sanitation:
The distribution of tarps provided improved shelter from the elements.
Increased awareness: Advocacy efforts raised awareness of the crisis and mobilized additional support from the government and other stakeholders.
Conclusion
The humanitarian crisis in Goma underscores the urgent need for coordinated and effective responses to displacement situations. HoReSo's efforts demonstrate the importance of:
Rapid needs assessments: to accurately identify the most pressing needs of affected populations.
Multi-sectoral approaches: to address the complex needs of displaced persons, including food, shelter, health, and mental health.
Community engagement: to ensure that assistance is culturally appropriate and effectively addresses the needs of the affected communities.
HoReSo remains committed to supporting the displaced persons in Goma and advocating for a more comprehensive and sustainable response to this ongoing humanitarian crisis.