The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is grappling with a severe food crisis, as ongoing conflicts and escalating food prices have left approximately 28 million people facing acute hunger. This marks an increase of 2.5 million individuals affected since December, highlighting the deepening humanitarian emergency in the country.
The United Nations’ World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have classified these individuals at Phase 3 or higher on the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) scale, indicating crisis levels of food insecurity. Alarmingly, 3.9 million people are experiencing emergency conditions at Phase 4, just one step below famine.
The eastern regions of the DRC are particularly affected, with intensified conflicts between government forces and rebel groups displacing hundreds of thousands of residents. This displacement has disrupted agricultural activities, leading to the loss of livelihoods and livestock, which are crucial for food production and income.
Economic challenges further exacerbate the situation. Inflation and the depreciation of the Congolese franc have diminished purchasing power, making it increasingly difficult for families to afford basic food items. The rising cost of living has forced many to reduce meal portions or skip meals entirely.
Humanitarian efforts are also under strain due to funding shortfalls. The WFP has highlighted the urgent need for additional resources to continue providing assistance. Shelley Thakral, WFP’s spokesperson in the DRC, emphasized the worsening conditions and the necessity for immediate support to address the escalating crisis.
Local communities are bearing the brunt of this emergency. Farmers like Bahavu Linda have lost their homes and livestock due to the violence, underscoring the urgent need for peace to enable the resumption of agricultural activities. Similarly, individuals like Safi, a mother of three, highlight the dire circumstances faced by widows and orphans who have lost family members and homes.
The WFP aims to assist 6.4 million people in the DRC but requires an additional $399 million to sustain operations through August 2025. Without this funding, millions remain at risk of severe hunger and malnutrition.
The international community is being called upon to respond swiftly to this crisis. Increased humanitarian aid, coupled with efforts to stabilize the region and address economic challenges, is essential to prevent further deterioration of the situation and to support the millions of Congolese affected by this escalating food crisis.
