Last Friday, the international conference for the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) organised by the UN was held in Geneva.
The aim of the conference was to find the financial means to help the country get out of its grave humanitarian crisis. One of the world’s poorest countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by years of political instability, armed conflict and violence. Millions of people are internally displaced.
At the humanitarian conference, the countries present pledged to help the DRC with $528 million, significantly less than the expected $1.7 billion. Representing the civil society of North Kivu was Caritas Goma's Eddy Yamwenziyo who claimed: "The Congolese population will not be alone. The solidarity of the international community is needed to meet the immediate needs of displaced persons and those returning. At the same time, it is necessary to deeply involve the national and local organsaations that can provide first support in the spirit of African solidarity.”
In recent years, Caritas Luxembourg has been working with vulnerable populations in the DRC with its partner Caritas Goma. Caritas Luxembourg provides drinking water, latrines and hygiene awareness, with the aim of improving sanitary conditions and reducing the spread of disease. In the agricultural field, seeds are distributed and production is improved to ensure a balanced diet in sufficient quantity. Essential household items, shelter and food are distributed to displaced families. A rehabilitation programme for health centres is also underway.
To continue and strengthen its work for people in the DRC, Caritas Luxembourg has called on the Luxembourg population to support it with donations. President of the branch, Marie-Josée Jacobs, has stated: "Many of our activities are subsidised by the government provided they have a matching donation. So, the more donations, more public resources are released for field work." She added that donations show solidarity with the Congolese people.
Anyone wishing to help the Congolese population can make your donation via bank transfer to the account (CCPL) IBAN LU34 1111 0000 2020 0000 with the communication "Déplacés en RDC” (displaced in the DRC). It is also possible to donate online at www.caritas.lu.
