An explosion at the Zaina camp for displaced people on the outskirts of Sake, North Kivu Province, has caused a significant number of deaths and injuries. The United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) has expressed alarm over the incident, emphasizing the need to protect innocent civilians, particularly children, from the ongoing conflict in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Unicef’s representative in the DRC, Grant Leaity, condemned the attack, stating that it is unacceptable for families seeking refuge from violence to face such tragedy in a place meant to provide safety. The organization has called on all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize the protection of civilians and urged the government to hold the perpetrators accountable while strengthening measures to safeguard children and their families.
The explosion, which occurred late on Monday at the Zaina camp, has added to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Eastern DRC. The intensified fighting in the region has led to a surge in population displacement, exacerbating the already high humanitarian needs of the affected communities.
According to the statement issued by Unicef, the number of newly displaced individuals in North Kivu in January 2024 surpassed the figures from the previous year, marking a concerning trend in the region. Presently, the province is home to 1.1 million displaced people, highlighting the magnitude of the displacement crisis and the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.
The tragic incident at the Zaina camp underscores the dire situation faced by displaced individuals in Eastern DRC and the imperative for enhanced protection measures for vulnerable populations, particularly children. As the conflict persists, the international community remains challenged to provide adequate support and resources to address the growing humanitarian needs in the region.