On Thursday, the United Nations and its partners announced plans to initiate a 2025 Humanitarian Response Initiative in collaboration with the authorities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

According to U.N. spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, “The aim of the initiative is to collect $2.5 billion to deliver life-saving assistance and protection to over 11 million people, including 7.8 million internally displaced individuals within the country.”

At a press briefing in New York, Dujarric highlighted that the nation has been facing a complex humanitarian crisis for several years, primarily driven by conflict, natural disasters, and disease outbreaks.

He stated, “There has been a recent upsurge in violence in the East, which has made an already dire humanitarian situation even more critical and increased the needs of those affected.”

Bruno Lemarquis, the Humanitarian Coordinator in the region, stressed that “all warning signs are indicating a red alert,” while Dujarric added that the focus remains on adjusting humanitarian efforts to the evolving crisis in the East, ensuring that essential aid reaches the most vulnerable populations, regardless of their location.

Last year, humanitarian partners managed to mobilize a record $1.3 billion, aiding more than 7 million individuals.

Dujarric expressed appreciation for the generosity of donors and underscored the necessity for continued support, urging all who can to contribute funding, access, and necessary resources to assist those in need in the DRC this year.

Earlier on Thursday, a tragic incident occurred when two explosions at a rally involving M23 rebel group leaders and local residents in eastern Congo led to at least 11 fatalities and 60 injuries.