528,752 refugees and asylum seekers in the DRC, among them 52% women.
98.8% of refugees in the DRC live in rural areas, and 25.3% live inside refugee camps or settlements.
922,275 refugees from the DRC live in neighboring countries in Africa.
What does UNHCR do against COVID-19?
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The health and living conditions of refugees and internally displaced persons are a priority for UNHCR. Thus,
UNHCR contributed to the inclusion of refugees and internally displaced persons in the DRC's national preparedness and response plan against COVID-19. -
At the same time, UNHCR continues its protection and assistance activities in line with COVID-19 prevention measures, such as physical distancing and hand-washing.
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In addition, UNHCR keeps its beneficiaries informed about COVID-19. Posters and leaflets have been translated into the languages spoken by the refugees and distributed throughout the country. Sensitization is taking place through spaced small group sessions and radio spots.
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Finally, UNHCR supports the authorities and the national health system by supporting the construction of medical checkpoints and containment sites, and by donating medicines and equipment such as masks, hand-washing points and other items in areas sheltering refugees and internally displaced persons.