DR Congo’s Perfect Storm: Multiple Crises Threaten Central African Nation’s Stability

Multiple Crises Grip DR Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is currently battling a new Ebola outbreak in the southern Kasai province, with 28 suspected cases and 15 deaths reported. The latest infection was identified in a 34-year-old pregnant woman.

Violence in eastern DR Congo has escalated dramatically in 2025. The Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized control of Goma, a provincial capital, in January after intense fighting that resulted in thousands of casualties. They have since expanded their territory southward and westward, forcing hundreds of thousands of civilians to flee their homes.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

The situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate rapidly, with escalating armed conflict driving mass displacement and worsening humanitarian needs. The M23’s control of Goma following intense clashes has created a dire situation. Even before this latest escalation, more than 21 million people required humanitarian aid – one of the highest figures worldwide.

The healthcare system is under severe strain, with attacks on health workers and facilities increasing by 276% in the first half of 2025 compared to the previous six months.

International Response and Future Outlook

The World Health Organization (WHO) has mobilized support for the Ebola outbreak, sending experts to join the DRC’s response team to strengthen disease surveillance, treatment, and infection prevention measures in health facilities.

The conflict has heightened tensions between neighbouring countries, particularly Rwanda and Burundi. Since Angola’s withdrawal from its African Union-mandated mediation role in mid-March, peace efforts have become fragmented, with both the African Union and Qatar competing for mediator roles.

The UN and its humanitarian partners have requested $2.54 billion for 2025 to provide lifesaving assistance to 11 million people. This represents an increased number of recipients from the previous year, focusing on those directly affected by conflict, extreme weather events, and epidemics.