MAIN POINTS
- Goma is still under the control of the UN Force in DRC (MONUC).
- The ceasefire declared by the rebel forces of the Congrès national pour la défense du peuple (CNDP) is still holding.
- Several occurrences of looting have been reported in some areas of the city.
- WHO is working closely with national authorities and UN partners to support people in North Kivu.
- To date more then 200 000 people have been displaced by fighting in Rutshuru and Masisi zones.
SITUATION UPDATE
- According to reports from Goma, five to nine civilians may have been killed during recent looting. Three wounded and three cases of rape have been reported;
- UN staff and their dependants in the various regrouping centres reached their homes early on (which date), but returned to the regrouping centres later the same day. They are under the protection of UN forces;
- Up to 45 000 new displaced people have had to remain on the roads of North Kivu because Rumangabo, Rushuru and other localities have fallen to the rebels;
- International media reports state that the CNDP could be willing to accept the opening of emergency humanitarian corridors in North Kivu.
HEALTH SITUATION ASSESSMENT
- Sixteen new cholera cases have been admitted to Goma's Virunga general hospital.
- The total number of wounded is not yet available.
- Goma hospital's blood bank remains functional thanks to WHO's support.
WHO AND OTHERS PARTNERS RESPONSE
- WHO has provided four basic health kits containing essential medical supplies to the International Medical Corps (IMC) to provide health care to displaced people in Kibati I and II camps, near Goma. WHO is ready to provide additional kits to cover needs.
- As Health Cluster lead, WHO called for a special meeting of cluster members on 31 October to evaluate the urgent needs of displaced populations.
- The WHO Representative is actively participating in all meetings with agencies to organize the protection of staff and assets and to provide quick assistance to the population.
- WHO has also strengthened epidemiological surveillance to detect any outbreaks in North Kivu and surrounding provinces.
URGENT NEEDS
- Protection for humanitarian workers to help them assist affected populations.
- Updating humanitarian situation on the ground.
For additional information, please contact:
Dr Matthieu Kamwa, WHO Representative
in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Email: kamwam@cd.afro.who.int
Dr Brice Ahounou, Health Action in Crises
Focal Point
Email: ahounoub@cd.afro.who.int
Dr Casimir Bobo Sinda, EHA, Kinshasa
Email: boboc@cd.afro.who.int
Mr Eugène Kabambi, Communication Officer,
EHA, Kinshasa
Email: kabambie@cd.afro.who.int