Humanitarian access is rapidly deteriorating as armed attacks intensify and displacement surges

More than one-fifth of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's population, nearly 25 million people, are experiencing severe acute food insecurity, UN spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Wednesday. Escalating violence in the east and large-scale displacement are driving the crisis. 

Fighting between M23 rebels and government forces has intensified since January. The rebels have captured key towns and supply routes near Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, and Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, reportedly leaving thousands dead. M23 is one of more than 100 armed groups active in eastern DR Congo, according to Human Rights Watch (HRW).  

He noted that communities in North Kivu are among the worst affected. More than 1,000 civilians have been killed since the start of the year, and at least 400,000 people have been displaced in Beni and Lubero territories alone. 

Assaults by armed groups are disrupting agricultural activities and blocking trade routes, further destabilizing local markets and deepening food shortages, he added. 

Dujarric also warned that the conflict has severely damaged the health system. Six medical facilities have been attacked since January 2025, and at least 28 have been hit since early 2024. More than half are now non-functional, leaving over 150,000 people without essential care. 

He further highlighted that insecurity and explosive remnants of war are hindering humanitarian operations, with aid agencies warning that they cannot reach those most in need unless access improves. 

According to the latest Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) analysis, the number of people facing acute food insecurity is projected to rise to 27 million in the first half of 2026, with several areas approaching IPC Phase 4, characterized by severe food shortages and high acute malnutrition. 

READ MORE: Africa facing escalating hunger crisis - UN

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has called on all armed actors to respect international humanitarian law and protect civilians and critical infrastructure.