September 30, 2005

CONGO – Episcopal Relief and Development is providing emergency assistance to people forced out of their homes after conflict in and around the northeast town of Boga in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rebel groups from the country as well as neighboring Rwanda and Uganda have descended on Boga and Tchabi, forcing people to flee and abandon all their possessions and belongings. Thousands of people are now displaced and have fled to other towns in the province such as Buleyi, Eringeti, and Bunia. Violence has recently increased due to ongoing political, military, and ethnic tension in the northeast province of North-Kivu.

"People who have been displaced left everything and have nothing at all," said the Most Rev. Dr. Dirokpa Balufuga Fidele, Archbishop of Congo and Bishop of Kinshasa and Bukavu. "While a number of the refugees have already arrived in the towns or large villages, many others are still walking to reach aid centers."

ERD is providing emergency assistance to the Diocese of Boga to provide immediate needs such as food to displaced people. The diocese will work with the local markets to supply critical foods. ERD's support will also provide long-term support such as seeds and essential tools to displaced families so they can farm and rebuild their homes.

To make a contribution to help people affected by this crisis, donate to the Africa Relief Fund at http://www.er-d.org/, or call 1-800-334-7626, ext. 5129. Gifts can be mailed to: Episcopal Relief and Development, Africa Relief Fund, PO Box 12043, Newark, NJ 07101.

Episcopal News Service
Source: ERD