UNICEF reports that the renewed conflict in South Kivu province, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), has resulted in over 850,000 individuals being displaced, with nearly half of them being children.
Many of these displaced individuals are enduring difficult living conditions, seeking refuge in schools, churches, or outdoors, and facing significant challenges in accessing clean water, sanitation, healthcare, and education.
The persistent violence in the region has caused a notable increase in serious violations against children.
Since January 2025, verified incidents have risen dramatically, showing an increase of approximately 150 percent compared to December 2024.
These violations encompass acts of sexual violence, killings, maiming, and the recruitment and exploitation of children by armed groups.
In March, UNICEF’s Representative in the DRC traveled to the eastern region to observe the crisis’s effects in Bukavu and evaluate UNICEF’s enhanced response efforts.
