OCHA concerned about risks of unexploded ammunition in DRC

Kinshasa, Apr 8 (Prensa Latina) The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) expressed concern about unexploded ammunitions in residential areas of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as a result of the conflict that the country is experiencing today.

April 8, 2025
09:31

The agency warned of the risks this poses to the population, particularly those returning to their homes after abandoning them for fear of violence.

In particular, OCHA expressed concern about the town of Walikale, in the province of North Kivu, which after being under siege and control of the rebels of the March 23 Movement (M23), since April 3 returned to the hands of the DRC Army.

“Unexploded ordnance in residential areas of Walikale Centre also pose lethal risks to local residents, including formerly displaced persons returning to the area,” it said in its report.

He added that local civil society groups warned against premature returns until demining operations are completed.

A similar situation is taking place in South Kivu province, where large quantities of unexploded munitions in the provincial capital Bukavu and Kalehe territory threaten local and displaced communities, as well as humanitarian workers.

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