ICRC assists 53,000 refugees affected by violence in North-Kivu

Kinshasa- DR Congo (PANA) -- The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the branch of the Red Cross in Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Thursd a y began distribution of food to some 53,000 refugees who have fled the civil war in North-Kivu in the east of the country, according to a statement from the huma n itarian organization.
Since mid-July, the victims have fled their villages following fighting between Congolese armed forces and an armed group in north-east of Lake Kivu, near the U g andan border.
â?As they fled, those displaced took little food with them; they find themselve s in a tough situation, as well as the hosting families,â? Mrs Alexandra Manescu , head of ICRC office said.
â?The military operations are continuing, making access to farms difficult,â? she added.
The displaced persons will receive food including 30 kg of flour, 10 kg of beans , 5 litres of oil and 500 grams of salt.
â?This emergency aid should help cover the needs in the short-term.
However, if the situation of insecurity continues, other interventions will certainly be ne e ded,â? Mrs Manescu said.