DR Congo Crisis: WFP Condemns Looting in Bukavu after M23 Rebels Take Key City
February 17, 2025
Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo – The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has strongly condemned the looting and violence that has taken place in the eastern Congolese city of Bukavu after it was captured by M23 rebels on February 16, 2025.
Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, fell to M23 rebels following heavy fighting with government forces. Witnesses have reported widespread looting and destruction in the city, with civilians being targeted by armed men.
WFP Condemns Looting
WFP Executive Director David Beasley expressed outrage over the looting, which has targeted food warehouses and other humanitarian assets. In a statement, Beasley said: “This is an outrage that cannot be tolerated. Food is a life-saving resource, and it is imperative that it is protected and distributed to those who need it most.”
WFP had been providing food assistance to over 1 million people in Bukavu and surrounding areas, but the looting of its warehouses has disrupted these operations. The agency is now calling on M23 rebels to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers and to allow food aid to reach those who need it.
Humanitarian Situation Deteriorating
The capture of Bukavu by M23 rebels has further worsened the already dire humanitarian situation in eastern Congo. Over 5 million people in the region are estimated to be in need of humanitarian assistance, including food, shelter, and medical care.
The ongoing conflict has forced thousands of people to flee their homes, creating displacement camps that are overcrowded and unsanitary. The lack of access to basic services, including healthcare and education, is also a major concern.
International Community Calls for Ceasefire
The international community has condemned the M23 rebellion and called for an immediate ceasefire. The United Nations Security Council has urged all parties to end the violence and engage in dialogue to find a political solution to the crisis.
Background
The M23 rebel group was formed in 2012 by former members of the Congolese army who accused the government of failing to implement a peace agreement. The group has been fighting government forces ever since, supported by Rwanda, which denies the allegations.
The conflict in eastern Congo has been ongoing for decades, driven by political instability, ethnic tensions, and the exploitation of natural resources. The violence has resulted in widespread suffering and displacement of the civilian population.
DR Congo crisis: WFP condemns looting in Bukavu after M23 rebels take key city
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