North Kivu: 13 Int'l Humanitarian NGOs threaten to withdraw from Rutshuru following insecurity

19 déc 2014

North Kivu: 13 Int'l Humanitarian NGOs threaten to withdraw from Rutshuru following insecurity


In the territory of Rutshuru, International Humanitarian NGOs threaten to interrupt their activities if nothing is done to ensure their security. They made this declaration in a joint communiqué published a few days ago in the Rutshuru – centre.

This firm stand is consecutive to the deterioration of the security situation in this territory. The provincial governor has reassured his humanitarian partners that the Congolese government will do everything in its power to ensure the security of this area. In a joint message dated last week, 13 International Humanitarian organizations explained that they have already been victims, a few weeks ago, of several incidents including holdups and attacks on their convoys by armed men. As a result, some of their staff members lost their lives.

The humanitarians recalled their priority is to bring emergency humanitarian assistance and implement development projects. This requires security for their staff members and safe humanitarian access to be able to reach out to the beneficiaries in need of assistance. They further said if this is not guaranteed, they will be compelled to suspend their activities. The provincial governor underscored that their concern will be heeded and pledged that every effort will be made to improve the security situation. Julien Paluku urged the humanitarians to be patient as they are working to eradicate this insecurity related phenomenon. He reassured that a solution will be found in the coming days.