Goma is calling on you to help.
Almost two years ago, we told you that Goma was a martyred city.
Today, we are faced with an even more heartbreaking reality. For the past ten days or so, the press has been reporting regularly on the dramatic worsening of the security situation in the east of the DRC, especially in and around the town of Sake, close to Goma. This crisis has triggered a mass exodus of its population towards Goma, which was already weakened by the influx of people who fled the horrors of Masisi last November-December. These men, women and children are desperately seeking refuge from the violence perpetrated by the rebels and armed militias of the M23.
Since Saturday, the neighbourhoods of Mugunga, Lac Vert and Kyeshero have been particularly exposed, directly affecting the 6,000 women and children who benefit from the projects we are supporting, as well as their teams and families. Insecurity is thus tragically reinforced by a major food crisis that threatens the very lives of all those who live or have found refuge in Goma.
This city, already scarred by more than two decades of civil war and the ravages of the volcanic eruptions of 2002 and 2021, remains a symbol of suffering and resilience.
Our local teams are working courageously to protect and save the beneficiaries of our partner projects. But we need you more than ever. We must urgently respond to the crying need for basic foodstuffs. Yesterday, our teams on the ground identified 825 families who are in serious danger and who depend on our help to survive.
Your contribution, however small, will make a difference to the lives of these families on borrowed time. We would like to extend our warmest thanks to each and every one of you for your solidarity. Together, we can and must bring hope of survival to these families in distress.
