Critical Humanitarian Funding Gap Threatens Millions in Eastern DRC
The humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reached alarming levels, with the United Nations issuing a stark warning to international donors. The Humanitarian Response Plan for 2026, designed to address the escalating needs of millions affected by conflict, remains severely underfunded at just 53.3% of its $1.4 billion budget.
UN Sounds Alarm Over Humanitarian Crisis
James Swan, the UN Special Representative in the DRC and head of the MONUSCO mission, addressed the UN Security Council to highlight the dire situation. He emphasized that nearly 27 million Congolese—over a quarter of the population—are now suffering from food insecurity, a figure that has surged due to prolonged conflict and reduced humanitarian funding.
The Humanitarian Response Plan for 2026 targets 7.3 million people in urgent need of assistance, but funding shortfalls threaten to undermine these efforts. Swan stressed the need for immediate action, stating:
“The humanitarian crisis in the DRC is grave. Nearly 27 million people face food insecurity, and the 2026 Humanitarian Response Plan, with a budget of $1.4 billion, is only 53.3% funded. While we appreciate the generosity of our donors, the remaining funds must be unlocked without delay to meet the urgent needs of the Congolese people.”
Consequences of Underfunding
The lack of sufficient funding has already forced humanitarian organizations to make difficult prioritizations. In 2025, reduced operational capacity led to the closure of over 1,000 nutrition centers, leaving 390,000 children with severe acute malnutrition without critical care. Additionally, 1.5 million people lost access to primary healthcare due to closures, stockouts of essential medicines, and reduced epidemic prevention and response capabilities. Food assistance targets have been slashed by up to 73%, leaving vulnerable populations at heightened risk of hunger and deprivation.
Urgent Appeal for International Support
The DRC government and humanitarian partners launched the 2026 Humanitarian Response Plan in January, calling for $1.4 billion to address the country’s needs. Without adequate funding, the response will be limited to just 7.3 million people out of the 15 million with critical needs. Swan reiterated the urgency of closing the funding gap, warning that delays would exacerbate an already catastrophic situation.
Fighting continues in several areas of the North Kivu and South Kivu provinces, where humanitarian needs are growing despite diplomatic efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire and implement peace agreements. The prolonged closure of banks and airports in the eastern DRC has further aggravated the crisis, disrupting supply chains and access to essential services.
Call for Immediate Action
The UN and humanitarian organizations are urging donors to fulfill their commitments and provide the remaining 46.7% of funding to avert a deeper humanitarian catastrophe. Swan concluded:
“The situation demands immediate action. Without full funding, millions of Congolese will continue to face unimaginable hardships. The time to act is now.”
Displaced families from Sake heading toward Goma in search of safety.
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