Ituri province faces rising violence and health challenges

The Ituri province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing a dual health and security crisis. Provincial authorities have launched a second phase of a malaria prevention campaign, including the distribution of insecticide-treated nets and the use of spatial dispensers in Bunia, Rwampara, Mungwalu, and Nyakunde. Military Governor Kasongo Mulumba Batoka Gaby stated that reducing malaria cases is essential to improve the surveillance and identification of Ebola virus symptoms.

Simultaneously, a resurgence of armed violence in the Djugu territory has displaced over 24,600 people during September 2026. According to a report from the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), clashes between CODECO militia and the Convention pour la Révolution Populaire (CRP) in Fataki, Drodro, and Lita have resulted in at least 16 civilian deaths.

The escalating insecurity has disrupted humanitarian operations in health, nutrition, and food security sectors, while placing additional strain on host families. OCHA warned that continued violence and restricted access could further diminish aid to vulnerable populations.