The Democratic Republic of Congo faces a severe health crisis with a surge in cholera, Mpox, and measles, driven by violence and the suspension of USAID funding. Thousands are without adequate healthcare, millions are displaced, and lack of sanitation is exacerbating the situation. Immediate international intervention is crucial to prevent further loss of life.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is experiencing a severe public health crisis, with a significant increase in preventable diseases such as cholera, Mpox, and measles. Recent reports reveal a surge of 326 cholera cases, 269 Mpox cases, and 95 measles cases in North Kivu during the last week of February, according to Oxfam affiliates on the ground. The overall cholera cases in January exceeded 3,850, with fatalities rising to 67, marking an alarming escalation compared to the prior month.
The deterioration of DRC’s health system is exacerbated by ongoing violence and the suspension of USAID funding, rendering millions vulnerable to diseases that could otherwise be prevented. The conflict has severely impacted healthcare capabilities, leading to a lack of testing facilities and operational hospitals. Violence has also resulted in the destruction of vital water and sanitation infrastructure, further compounding the crisis.
Dr. Manenji Mangundu, Oxfam DRC Country Director, stated, “This is turning into a full-blown humanitarian catastrophe. People are drinking water straight from contaminated rivers and springs because water tanks and sanitation facilities have been destroyed. When you combine this with a collapsed health system, cholera is spreading like wildfire.” He added, “Imagine a hospital without supplies, people drinking untreated water, and patients without much money still being asked to pay for their care. It’s a disaster.”
The cessation of USAID-funded programs is having dire repercussions for the 7.8 million internally displaced persons (IDPs) who already face significant challenges regarding access to food, water, and shelter. Areas such as Kirotshe and Goma are particularly hard hit, with displaced families struggling in overcrowded conditions and lacking access to clean water. In North Kivu, more than 70 health facilities and testing centers have been completely destroyed.
Kamara Wabomundu, a staff member of the CCLK/Bulimba Health Zone Central Office, observed, “Our hospital was 100 percent dependent on humanitarian support. When our funding was cut, everything collapsed—we had no backup plan. Neither the hospitals nor the communities were prepared. We are asking people to pay for care when they can’t even afford their next meal.”
Dr. Mangundu emphasized the significance of USAID’s funding, noting that it was critical for sustaining humanitarian efforts: “USAID was the leading donor in DRC and most aid agencies here relied on its funding to provide life-saving assistance. The international community needs to understand that the systems are rapidly collapsing in DRC. Every moment of inaction means more lives are being lost that could be saved.”
Additionally, the closure of banks and microfinance institutions has hindered emergency aid distribution via cash transfers. Furthermore, the shutdown of Goma and Kavumu airports has inflated food prices beyond the reach of millions, tightening the humanitarian situation further.
In summary, the ongoing health crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo, characterized by surges in diseases such as cholera, Mpox, and measles, stems from both violence and the suspension of vital funding from USAID. With millions of individuals, particularly internally displaced persons, at risk due to lack of healthcare and essential resources, the urgency for international attention and support is paramount. Immediate action is critical to mitigate further loss of life and to rehabilitate the failing health system.
Original Source: www.oxfam.org.nz
