DRC: In Ituri, Humanitarian Coordinator Calls to Preserve Safety and Dignity of Kigonze Displaced Amid Deteriorating Situation

UN Deputy Secretary-General and MONUSCO Deputy Chief Damien Mama expressed deep concern over the worsening situation at Kigonze in Bunia, where nearly 19,000 displaced persons reside. Since September 20, security incidents have forced many families to abandon the site, threatening their safety and dignity. He emphasized that displacement sites must remain civil and humanitarian spaces, and called for close cooperation with authorities to ensure protection and humanitarian access, which is hindered by insecurity. The situation also hampers Ebola response efforts, as displacement and access restrictions complicate epidemiological surveillance. Over 1.1 million people are displaced in Ituri, including more than 373,000 on displacement sites.