Congo: Caritas Internationalis has made an urgent appeal to the global community to help millions of people suffering from a deepening humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Catholic charity warns that over 21 million people across the country are in urgent need of aid, but only a fraction of them are currently receiving support.

According to recent updates, only about 6.8 million people are being reached under the United Nations Humanitarian Response Plan. The rest remain without consistent access to food, clean water, shelter, and medical care. The appeal by Caritas comes at a time when the country is facing severe funding shortages that are forcing aid groups to scale back life-saving programs.

The worsening conflict and violence in eastern Congo have driven millions from their homes, creating one of the largest displacement crises in the world. Reports show that more than 5.7 million people are now internally displaced, including about one million children. The situation has been made worse by limited access to humanitarian supplies and the growing insecurity that makes it difficult for aid workers to reach affected areas.

Caritas Internationalis, through its local networks, continues to provide support in some of the most vulnerable regions, offering food, clean water, and emergency shelter. However, the organization says it is struggling to meet the overwhelming needs due to lack of funds.

The humanitarian appeal coincides with the Paris Conference for Peace and Prosperity in the Great Lakes Region, where global leaders are being urged to step up support for the Congolese people. The Catholic Church and other faith-based groups have also been praised for playing a vital role in reaching communities that are often cut off from international assistance.

The crisis in the DRC shows no sign of easing. Without immediate and increased funding, aid agencies warn that millions could face hunger, disease, and further displacement. Caritas Internationalis has called on governments, donors, and humanitarian partners to act quickly and stand with the people of Congo in their time of great need.