IFSW’s African Region Regional President, Oluwatoni Adeleke, issues a statement on the crisis in North Kivu, Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo:
As the President of the International Federation of Social Workers, Africa Region (IFSW Africa), I am profoundly alarmed by the escalating humanitarian crisis in North Kivu, Goma. The surge in violence, mass displacement, and grave human rights violations have left thousands of innocent civilians, particularly women, children, and other vulnerable groups, in urgent need of humanitarian assistance.
The IFSW Africa Region strongly condemns the ongoing violence and violations of human rights. We call on all parties involved to immediately cease hostilities and prioritize peaceful dialogue. Additionally, we urge the international community, governments, and humanitarian organizations to respond swiftly and effectively to this crisis.
Reports from humanitarian agencies, including Help a Child organization in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), indicate that over 100,000 children have been displaced. Internally displaced persons (IDP) camps have suffered severe impacts from bombings and explosions, further endangering already vulnerable populations. Many affected families lack access to essential resources, including clean water and electricity, exacerbating their suffering. The situation in the region remains dire, with communities being held hostage by rebel groups, including M23.
As social workers, we are gravely concerned about the far-reaching impact of this crisis on mental health, social cohesion, and overall well-being. Social workers play a crucial role in responding to humanitarian emergencies, providing psychosocial support, and facilitating sustainable development.
In light of this, we make the following urgent demands:
- Immediate cessation of hostilities and a commitment to meaningful peace negotiations.
- Unhindered access for humanitarian organizations to deliver life-saving aid to affected populations.
- Protection of civilians, particularly women, children, and vulnerable groups, from violence, exploitation, and human rights abuses.
- Support for social workers and frontline responders to ensure they have the necessary resources and capacity to assist communities effectively.
We stand in unwavering solidarity with the people of North Kivu, Goma, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The IFSW Africa Region remains committed to advocating for their rights, dignity, and well-being. We urge all stakeholders to act decisively to address this humanitarian catastrophe and ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
Signed,
Oluwatoni Adeleke
President, IFSW Africa Region
Oluwatoni Adeleke
President, IFSW Africa Region