DRC - Baseline Assessment - M23 Crisis 7 - Aug 2023

As of August 2023, the overall situation indicates a reduction in violence and conflicts related to the M23 crisis. However, it is important to note that sporadic incidents or localized clashes still occur in some areas of North Kivu province. Localities such as Bukombo, Busanza, and Tongo in the Rutshuru territory, as well as Mfunyi-shanga, Ufamandu 1st, Kamuronza, and Bashali-kahembe in the Masisi territory, have witnessed confrontations affecting local populations, including those who have recently returned. The violence and instability caused by the ongoing conflict have resulted in numerous displacements, loss of lives, human rights violations, and a deterioration of the socio-economic situation. Consequently, the affected population finds itself in a vulnerable situation with limited access to basic services such as healthcare, education, clean water, and food. Many displaced individuals are living in overcrowded collective centers or with host families, facing inadequate living conditions and limited access to essential resources. This persistent crisis situation exacerbates displacement and vulnerability among the population in affected localities, leading to new outbreaks of violence in addition to pendulum movements.

These events have significantly heightened security and humanitarian challenges in the affected areas. These successive clashes have led to prolonged displacements, intermittent movements, and pendulum movements. Since the beginning of the crisis, IOM, through the DTM, continues to conduct a series of rapid assessments, including emergency monitoring (EET/ERM), crisis analysis, and registration, with a priority to meet immediate information needs in order to understand displacement dynamics and needs. This report presents the results of the assessments conducted in different displacement and return areas between July 23 and August 24, 2023.