The security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) remains critical, with escalating conflict placing children and families in grave danger. The M23 rebel group has advanced further into South Kivu, taking control of Bukavu, a city of one million inhabitants. While the absence of direct confrontation with the Congolese army has led to relative calm, reports of looting in supermarkets, food stores, and humanitarian warehouses highlight the growing instability.
Evacuation of children, families, and staff
In light of the worsening security situation, SOS Children’s Villages made the difficult but necessary decision to evacuate children, caregivers, and staff from our programme in Bukavu. The SOS Children’s Village, located on a strategic hill in the city, was at high risk of occupation.
Between 7 and 9 February, a total of 58 individuals—including children, caregivers, and support staff—were safely evacuated to Rwanda. They are currently being cared for at the SOS Children’s Village in Kigali, where they have received a warm welcome from colleagues.
“We have now been in Kigali for 10 days, where we have been warmly welcomed by our Rwandan colleagues in conditions similar to those in Bukavu. The participants are doing rather well despite the difficult situation. They are saddened to have had to leave their friends and their usual environment, but they understand that the move was necessary for their safety. We continue to support them with the help of the psychologist,” said Clovis Pendo, National Coordinator of Alternative Care for SOS Children’s Villages in the DRC.
A planned relocation to Burundi has been reconsidered due to restrictions at border crossings and increasing political tensions. An assessment is now underway to explore alternative solutions, including a potential move to Kinshasa.
Situation in Bukavu and Uvira
Despite additional security measures, rebels entered the now-empty SOS Children’s Village in Bukavu on 11 February. “There were more than 500 rebels in the SOS Children’s Village in Bukavu on Sunday morning. They asked questions without violence or seizing anything. A large number withdrew, but some are still camped out there,” said Armand Tchoffouo, National Director of SOS Children’s Villages in DRC. The remaining rebels have since left the village for an unknown destination.
Meanwhile, staff members who remained in Bukavu have activated the organisation’s hibernation plan and are safe in their homes. In Uvira, where tensions are rising, we continue to monitor the security situation closely.
Our Commitment to Children and Families
While we are relieved that children, young people, and caregivers are safe for now, we remain deeply concerned about the one million residents of Bukavu, particularly vulnerable children and families.
“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. We remain deeply concerned about their plight and reaffirm our commitment to act and advocate for their safety and well-being,” said Armand Tchoffouo.
We are working tirelessly to support those affected, ensuring they receive care, psychological support, and security in the midst of this crisis. Our teams in Rwanda and the DRC continue to assess and adapt our response to ensure the safety and well-being of those in our care.
We will provide further updates as the situation evolves. If you have any questions or require more information, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
About SOS Children’s Villages in DRC
SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children and families in the Democratic Republic of Congo since the early 1990s. We operate in Bukavu, Uvira, and Kinshasa, providing essential care and support to children, young people, and families facing adversity. Our programmes currently reach 1,200 children and young people and 360 families through family strengthening initiatives, while 146 children and young people receive alternative care.
