Needs increasing in Maniema province

Some 30 percent of the population of the eastern Maniema province is still hiding out in the forests after fleeing fighting and insecurity, according to Christian Aid. The NGO, which is a member of the Action by Churches Together (ACT) umbrella group, says most of the people are concentrated in the southern part of the province. “A significant number of deaths has been reported, due mostly to disease and malnutrition amongst the more vulnerable groups,” Christian Aid said, in a report produced by ACT. “Land is in plentiful supply in Maniema, but the displaced lack the tools to cultivate it, and the more vulnerable amongst the displaced face a shortage of labour power for cutting down trees and cultivating land.” Christian Aid said needs in Maniema were increasing, particularly in the south which is close to the war front and therefore receives many new arrivals from Katanga and Kasai provinces. Furthermore, local inhabitants were seriously affected by fighting between Mayi-Mayi militia groups and the RCD “who, in repeated reprisal raids, destroyed much of the farming capacity of the province”. Christian Aid witnessed “the pathetic sight of men, women and children dressed in rags, and most barefooted”, as well as destroyed buildings. It listed the most urgent needs as seed and tools, and funds to transport the seeds and to secure the storage facilities.