Dear colleagues and friends,
The International Federation of Social Workers (IFSW) urgently calls for support to assist our colleagues and communities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) who are facing an escalating and multi-layered humanitarian crisis.
In North Kivu, Goma, ongoing conflict and mass displacement have created devastating conditions for thousands of civilians, particularly women, children, and vulnerable groups. IFSW Africa President Oluwatoni Adeleke recently issued a strong statement condemning the violence, calling for immediate peace efforts and highlighting the critical role of social workers in providing psychosocial support and rebuilding social cohesion. You can read the full statement here: Crisis in Democratic Republic of Congo: A Statement from IFSW Africa.
Adding to this humanitarian emergency, severe flooding caused by torrential rains has struck Tanganyika province, displacing nearly 10,000 people and destroying homes, schools, and agricultural land. Floodwaters have worsened already serious food insecurity, wiped out key crops, and increased the risk of disease outbreaks, particularly cholera[i].
Oluwatoni Adeleke, IFSW Africa President, states: “The people of the Democratic Republic of Congo are facing unimaginable suffering from conflict and natural disasters. As social workers, we must stand in solidarity and act swiftly. Our support can make a critical difference by helping communities rebuild their lives and regain hope.”
On the frontline of the response, Fanny Maytiaba, a member of the National Body of Social Assistants Democratic Republic Congo in the DRC, reports: “The DRC is truly overwhelmed by many problems. As social workers, we are at our limit because the needs of vulnerable people we encounter exceed our available resources. Every day, we contribute and assist patients, children, and families with food and health support, often with our own limited means. We are counting on solidarity beyond borders to help us continue this vital work.”
Yannick Mubakilay, Executive Secretary of the National Association in the DRC, adds: “Our association stands in unwavering commitment to support the vulnerable populations suffering from this compounded crisis. We call upon our international colleagues and partners to join us in solidarity and action. Together, we can provide essential aid, restore hope, and affirm the dignity of those affected.”
Given the urgency and scale of the needs, we are launching this fundraising appeal to provide immediate relief and strengthen the capacity of social workers on the ground to support affected communities. All funds raised will be directed exclusively to supporting humanitarian efforts in the DRC.
Your contribution, no matter how small, will help provide essential resources, psychosocial support, and hope to thousands in desperate need. For wire transfers, please use the below bank details:
Bank: UBS
Address: Bubenbergplatz 3, 3011 Bern, Switzerland
Beneficiary name: IFSW
SWIFT Code: UBSWCHZH80A
Account Number (IBAN): CH17 0023 5235 5293 2001 R
Donations can also be made via PayPal by sending your contribution to .
Please mention DRCSUPPORT in your transaction.
With sincere thanks for your solidarity and support.
[i] Flooding displaces thousands amid ongoing unrest in eastern DR Congo | UN News
