Democratic Republic of the Congo - July 2026 update

The Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to face one of the world’s most severe and complex humanitarian crises. Ongoing armed conflict in North Kivu, South Kivu, and Ituri has displaced an estimated 7.4 million people, with many others seeking refuge in neighboring countries such as Burundi, Rwanda, and Uganda—placing additional pressure on already limited host‑community resources.

Between January and May 2026, the ICRC and its Red Cross partners provided direct assistance to communities most affected by violence and displacement. Financial support reached 20,430 people in the Kivus, helping families purchase food and basic necessities. Solar‑powered water systems and distribution points installed in Mbau, Mavivi, and Congo ya Sika improved access to safe water for 27,200 people. In parallel, 166 Congolese children—including 99 in the Kivus—were reunited with their families through Restoring Family Links services.

Civilians continue to face serious risks from explosive weapons used in populated areas. Explosive remnants of war pose hazards in agricultural fields and along daily movement routes, contributing to high numbers of weapon‑related injuries; more than 16% of patients in ICRC‑supported hospitals were injured by explosions. The spread of Ebola in conflict‑affected areas further strains already fragile systems, complicating access to health care and increasing pressure on overstretched communities.

In this challenging environment, the ICRC is working to maintain humanitarian space and ensure that people receive timely medical care, protection services, and essential assistance. Together with Red Cross partners, we continue strengthening access to health care, water, and other critical services while supporting safe movement, family reunification, and community resilience across conflict‑affected regions.

Thank you for standing with us on the side of humanity.