Disaster Response
IFAW rushes aid to DRC amid conflict
IFAW rushes aid to DRC amid conflict
February 3, 2025
In one of the sharpest escalations in years of conflict, M23 rebels in the Democratic Republic of Congo have reportedly captured the city of Goma. After days of heavy fighting that left the streets lined with lifeless bodies and displaced thousands of people, they took control of the airport on Tuesday evening, after government troops and allied militia surrendered.
Helping refugees and animals in border communities in DRC. Photo: © Sauvons Nos Animaux
The humanitarian situation is dire. Thousands are trapped and in hiding in Goma, which has long been a safe refuge for civilians, with internet connectivity muzzled, movement restricted, and limited access to food, water, electricity, and security. Hospitals are overwhelmed, and Sky News reports that over 100 people have already lost their lives this week, while civil society organisations and NGOs working in Goma put the current death toll at 25, with 375 people wounded.
There are reports of livestock and other animals caught up and injured in the conflict as people flee with domestic animals such as chickens, goats and cows. As of December, more than 3,000 animals living at Goma’s largest camp for internally displaced persons received veterinary treatment at a clinic set up by our partner Sauvons Nos Animaux. Currently, we do not have any comprehensive information on the animal populations within any camps and how their needs are being met.
IFAW is rushing aid to Sauvons Nos Animaux for the purpose of assessing and responding to the immediate needs of animals in the conflict areas of Goma. While communication is intermittent, we remain in contact with our partners on the ground whenever possible as this situation unfolds.
Related content
every problem has a solution, every solution needs support.
The problems we face are urgent, complicated, and resistant to change. Real solutions demand creativity, hard work, and involvement from people like you.