The distribution, carried out with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), is a first step in responding to the need for humanitarian aid arising from clashes that broke out in late May between the armed forces and a Mai Mai group near Opienge, in Orientale province.

“These people suffered looting in the recent clashes and lost everything,” said Moussa Shabani, the chairman of the Red Cross chapter in Bafwasende. “To come this far, they had to walk for three or four days through the forest. Now they are safe, but they will have to rebuild their lives from almost nothing.”

The displaced families were given blankets, jerrycans, kitchen utensils, clothing, gardening tools and hygiene items.

In addition, the hospitals in Bafwasende and Opienge and two health-care centres were provided with medicines, surgical equipment, disinfectants and dressing materials for treating the wounded.

In accordance with the Fundamental Principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement – in particular, the principles of neutrality, impartiality and independence – the Congolese Red Cross and the ICRC endeavour to assist and protect victims of armed conflicts and other violent situations, and to relieve the suffering of those who are most vulnerable.