Healthcare Crisis Worsens Amid M23 Rebels’ Advance in Eastern DRC

Photo: @MSF

February 25, 2025 Hour: 8:15 pm

The advance of M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has exacerbated an already fragile healthcare system. The escalating conflict between the rebels and the Congolese armed forces has made it increasingly challenging for hospitals to care for wounds sustained in the fighting.

A total of 34 healthcare facilities in North Kivu have been directly affected by the ongoing battles. The situation is further complicated by regular outbreaks of infectious illnesses, placing additional strain on medical resources and infrastructure.

“These violent, recurring incidents are unacceptable.”

One of our colleagues was critically injured on 20 February in Democratic Republic of Congo after shots hit our base in Masisi town, North Kivu province.https://t.co/FgePRRWmlD
— MSF International (@MSF) February 22, 2025

Dr. Jean Bruno, the WHO Bureau Chief for North Kivu, highlighted the severe resource limitations. “The fact is we do not have enough resources, in fact financial resources to provide all the support,” Dr. Bruno stated. He emphasized the difficulties in identifying, researching, and treating patients with infectious diseases, including measles, cholera, and mpox.

As the M23 rebels continue their advance towards the city of Uvira, the healthcare crisis in the region is expected to deteriorate further. According to the NGO Doctors without Borders, medical facilities in Uvira have already suffered damage from artillery strikes.

The situation remains dire as healthcare workers and facilities struggle to cope with the compounded challenges of conflict and disease.