We felt compelled to write a blog post about the dire
situation taking place in the DRC. We understand that what is happening right now is not getting much publicity outside of Africa and wanted to make everyone back at home aware of what is going on.
Hands at Work has a presence in the
southern DRC and recently has been working at developing a community-based
organization in the large eastern city of Goma. Please take the time to read a
few (or all) of the articles below to educate yourselves on the current
situation. We have also included some older articles on the DRC, specifically
as they pertain to the plight of women, the constant danger they face and how
they are subject to some of the most atrocious and inhumane acts beyond what
one can imagine.
Below is an excerpt of an email sent to the Hands family on
November 29th by our Service Centre Coordinator in the DRC,
explaining the situation in Goma.
“Goma was in a gloomy situation but now water is available. The
orphanage is full packed of children and refugee camps are multiplied all over.
There are refugee camps behind the airport, in Mugunga, in Sake though the
place has been destroyed because it is there the tense opposition stood between
the 2 rival armies until the M23 took over, in the side of Nyamasasa there are
plenty refugee camps. In shorts there are plenty of refugee camps where people
are suffering with hunger. There is no bank opening and the situation is chaotic.
As for the M23 they are still controlling the area and the population got used
to it. The Monusco has taken control of the airport this time and the rebels
have been given 48 hours by the government to quit Goma. Since the Monusco are
controlling the airport we do have hope that things will change again. The
situation which is controlling Goma more than the enemy is starvation from
ordinary people who cant have access to their bank accounts and ordinary
business to the victims in the multiple refugee camps where other people are
hiding themselves. I think if our children are not starving in their village of
Luhonga and Buhimba they should be scattered in some refugee camps where they
may starve.”
Please pray for the women and children that are forced to
flee their homes, that are subjected to torture and rape, and who face threats
on their lives on a daily basis. Please pray for peace, that there would be no
more bloodshed and that innocent lives would be spared. Please pray for the
DRC.
MUST READ
Why Eastern DR Congo is ‘Rape Capital of the World’ (October 25, 2011)
Haunted by Congo Rape Dilemma (May 15, 2010)
THE CURRENT SITUATION
Goma: M23 Rebels Capture DR Congo City (November 20)
Why Goma Matters
(November 20)
Why the World is Ignoring Congo War (November 27)
M23 Rebels Set Conditions for Goma Pullout (November 27)
BACKGROUND
Q&A: DR Congo Conflict (November 20)
Q&A: DR Congo’s M23 Rebels (November 23)