Attachments
Since December 2018, the localities of Bouemba and Makotimpoko have seen an influx of around 11,000 asylum seekers due to ethnic conflict in the DRC's Mai Ndombe Province. Those in Makotimpoko have managed to engage in small livelihood activities, while those in Bouemba remain reliant on humanitarian aid. Ethnic conflicts persist in their regions of origin, and these individuals were declared refugees by the Congolese government in October 2023.
In August 2022, violent ethnic clashes between the "Yaka" and "Teke" in Kouamuth, Maï-Ndombé Province, resulted in over 180 deaths and the destruction of about 200 houses. Approximately 20,000 people, including 285 unaccompanied children, fled to neighboring provinces, with around 5,000 crossing into the Republic of Congo's Ngabé district. These asylum seekers were also declared refugees in October 2023 and remain dependent on humanitarian assistance.
Since December 7, 2024, Congo has been hosting displaced people from Bolobo and Kwamouth, fleeing conflicts between the Banounou and Batéké, and Bayaka and Batéké ethnic groups. This new wave of displaced persons adds to those who fled similar conflicts in 2018 and 2022, now settled in Bouemba and Ngabé. The influx has created a severe humanitarian situation, with overcrowding and inadequate infrastructure threatening food security and health systems.
As of now, Congo hosts around 6,033 forcibly displaced persons, a number expected to rise as conflicts continue. The National Committee for Assistance to Refugees, in collaboration with UNHCR, has developed a response plan to address this emergency. This plan outlines the humanitarian situation, risks, mitigation measures, and detailed actions needed, including financial requirements and responsible parties. It aims to mobilize resources from various actors and donors.