Children have been among the hardest hit by this violent conflict.

According to the Norwegian Refugee Council, by the end of 2023, over 1.6 million people had been forced out of their homes, into camps for displaced persons or wherever they could find shelter. Doctors Without Borders believes the numbers are much higher. Since 2021, they estimate 5.6 million people overall have been displaced. 

In the latest update from the United Nations we hear about progress and challenges around peace talks. Mediation efforts are being led by Angola, known as the Luanda process.

Recent reports explore comments from the DRC and Rwandese governments, as well as insight from UN officials, around what’s needed to bring more stability and a restoration of dignity for people living in Ituri Province.

Hope in the Crisis

Indeed, the situation on the ground is serious. Still, we continue to see glimmers of hope and God’s grace in the midst of it all.

Earlier in 2024, concerns over the safety of the younger children led us to relocate them temporarily to Uganda, where they continued to receive housing and schooling. 

By early 2025, we anticipate the children will move back to Congo, now that we’ve found a suitable home to rent where they can continue to be cared for and attend school. 

We’ve seen that once children receive the food, stable housing, access to education and medical treatment they need, their lives change. Coupled with a message of God’s love, hope is restored and the children get a chance to dream again. 

We remain hopeful.

– 

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on the developments in Ituri Province.