The rest of the world has shown great force of character in ignoring the endless wars in the Democratic Republic of Congo: No matter how many millions have died, we simply refuse to deal with the ongoing catastrophe. Now, via ReliefWeb, OCHA puts our character to the test again: Democratic Republic of Congo: North Kivu Situation Report No. 10, 22 November 2012. The highlights (if you want to call them that):
•Heavy fighting between FARDC and M23 broke out today 22 November in Sake, Masisi Territory, west of Goma, prompting further population movements away from Sake.
•Initial estimates indicate that 140,000 persons are displaced in and around Goma and have significant needs for food and non-food items. Some are staying in primary schools without basic facilities. Further assessments underway.
•Restoring power to Goma is a key priority given the high risk of a rise in cholera cases as access to clean drinking water remains limited due to power outage.
•Humanitarian partners are stepping up health care support to vulnerable populations. Challenges include extensive looting of health centres, including in the past few days between Goma and Sake.
•Emergency Relief Coordinator Valerie Amos calls for the fighting to stop immediately and urges all parties to uphold their obligations under International Human Rights and Humanitarian Law. This includes prohibiting attacks against civilians and ensuring safe and unhindered humanitarian access to people in need.
