Emergency aid in the remote areas of North and South Kivu

The eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) is experiencing one of the world’s most protracted and complex humanitarian crises. The conflicts between non-state armed groups and the Congolese army have had a severe impact on the civilian population, particularly in the regions of North Kivu, South Kivu, and Maniema. In this challenging environment, HEKS is providing targeted emergency assistance to vulnerable groups and facilitating the delivery of aid to hard-to-reach conflict areas to meet their most urgent basic needs. The focus is on ensuring access to water, hygiene, and sanitation, as well as reviving agricultural production.

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The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that in 2024, around 25.4 million people will require humanitarian aid. Additionally, the International Organization for Migration reports that over 6.9 million internally displaced persons, mostly in the east of the country, are in need. HEKS aims to help humanitarian organizations access affected populations and provide both rapid and long-term support. When a conflict, natural disaster, or epidemic breaks out, HEKS teams quickly conduct needs assessments to ensure targeted assistance. These findings are shared with other humanitarian actors on the ground to mobilize all available resources effectively.

Restoration of Roads

The poor condition of main roads significantly contributes to the collapse of the local economy and hampers international assistance for conflict-affected populations. HEKS works with affected communities to restore road infrastructure and bridges. Those involved in these efforts receive financial compensation. This collaboration between workers from different community groups also helps to de-escalate conflicts.

Provision of Emergency Relief

HEKS’s emergency aid focuses on distributing hygiene kits and providing unconditional cash assistance in regions where emergency alerts have been raised. This support benefits both displaced persons and returnees, as well as host communities. The kits contain essential hygiene items such as soap, water containers, reusable hygiene products, and underwear. The cash assistance is available to all conflict-affected individuals, without specific conditions, allowing recipients to purchase food and essential goods for their families. Where possible, HEKS also organizes “food markets,” where people can exchange vouchers for food, supporting the local economy.

Water, Hygiene, and Sanitation

By constructing or rehabilitating water sources, supply networks, and drinking water points, HEKS ensures that people have access to sufficient clean drinking water to meet their daily needs. Without these measures, they are often forced to use rain or river water, which can lead to diseases. Diarrheal diseases, particularly among children under five, are common and can have serious consequences. To prevent the spread of illnesses, HEKS teams regularly conduct awareness campaigns in villages, working closely with influential figures such as village leaders, traditional authorities, and representatives of local health authorities.

Development of Sustainable Livelihoods

To provide support beyond immediate emergency aid, HEKS works with local communities to implement agricultural and fishing projects. HEKS teams organize the distribution of seeds for food and vegetable crops, as well as farming tools in villages, to help farmers cultivate their fields. Additionally, training sessions are provided to help smallholder farmers improve their yields. To promote conflict resolution and women’s participation, the working groups are deliberately mixed, including both men and women.

HEKS’s activities are financially supported by the European Union’s Directorate-General for Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid (DG ECHO), the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USAID-BHA), the Humanitarian Fund of OCHA (HF DR Congo), and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC).

Last Update: October 2024