War broke out in many regions last year. A rebel faction, supported by outside forces, caused extensive damage and suffering in the Bas Congo and Kinshasa areas, and quickly took control of most of the DRC's eastern areas. In areas affected by the fighting food stocks are low and market prices are high, preventing families from feeding themselves. Large numbers of people have fled into the forest to escape the fighting and are struggling to survive. Waterborne diseases are on the rise due to contaminated water sources.
Hygienic supplies are almost non-existent.
Recently, the UN Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator confirmed that there are just under 200,000 refugees in the DRC and possibly as many as 500,000 displaced persons. The conflict in northern Uganda has raged for 11 years. Various rebel groups have emerged and disbanded while others have resurfaced. Many people continue to be displaced, killed, maimed by landmines, raped and abducted while property continues to be destroyed. There are no signs of the situation ending, and many vulnerable people remain in need of emergency relief and assistance.