The United Nations has identified the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as facing one of the most complex and underfunded humanitarian crises globally, with over 25 million people in need of assistance.

A recent surge in violence has displaced more than a million people, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in the region.

Families returning to eastern DRC are confronting severe hardships after being uprooted by ongoing violence.

Mediatrice Busogi, a returnee from Kibumba, reported finding her home in ruins, with many houses dilapidated and lacking essential structural elements like roofs and doors.

Community representative Byamungu Rukera from Sake stressed the urgent need for the rehabilitation and rebuilding of homes, as well as access to food and household essentials.

According to Hercules Kipa, Head of Emergency Programmes for Concern, many returning families have lost their land and sources of income, leaving them with unmet humanitarian needs.

Returnees are living in makeshift shelters made from tarpaulins and are often sharing space with other families.

Humanitarian efforts in the region are severely hampered by funding shortfalls and inadequate security for aid workers.