Democratic Republic of Congo
– February 11 2025
Children and staff evacuated from SOS Children’s Villages in Democratic Republic of Congo
As conflict intensifies in the eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the safety of children, families and communities continues to be gravely threatened.
The M23 rebel group seeking control over eastern DRC has made significant advances towards Bukavu and has now reached Katana, just 15 miles from the city's airport.
Although the armed group has not directly attacked civilians, their use of heavy weaponry in Goma has taken the lives of nearly 3,000 people. The National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in DRC, Armand Tchoffouo, expressed his deep concern over the developing situation.
“If the Congolese authorities decide to defend the town of Bukavu, we can expect a confrontation that could have serious consequences for the local population, as in Goma,” Tchoffouo said.
The SOS Children's Village in Bukavu is located on a highly visible, elevated site in the city, exposing it to an increased risk of occupation by military or rebel forces.
At SOS Children’s Villages, the safety and well-being of children is our utmost priority. To ensure the safety of those living in Bukavu, we evacuated 55 children, young people and staff from February 7 to February 9.
“While the successful evacuation is a relief, it must not make us forget the critical situation of the one million inhabitants of Bukavu, particularly children,” Tchoffouo said. “We remain deeply concerned about their plight and reaffirm our commitment to act and advocate for their safety and well-being.”
Our dedication to protect and provide for children and families in the midst of this crisis remains unwavering, but we need your compassionate generosity.
Children’s rights, safety and futures must be protected. Please partner with SOS today and provide critical, life-saving aid to areas where children need us most—like DRC.
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About SOS Children’s Villages in DRC
SOS Children's Villages has been operating in the Democratic Republic of Congo since 1990 in three locations: Bukavu, Uvira and Kinshasa. SOS DRC supports 1,420 children and young people and more than 400 families through the family strengthening program.