Just 15 kilometres from Goma, the provincial capital, Nyiragongo has become a temporary refuge for many fleeing violence—however, an acute shortage of clean water further strains their survival.*
The scarcity of clean water compels camp residents to rely on contaminated sources, raising the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery. These diseases spread rapidly in unsanitary conditions, worsening both the health and safety of displaced people. Clinics within the camps are overwhelmed, and medical supplies are dwindling.
“The situation is critical,” says a local aid worker who requested anonymity. “People are falling ill, and without access to clean water, conditions will only worsen. Our healthcare resources are exhausted, and many suffer needlessly.”
Lack of clean water further complicates basic hygiene, contributing to disease spread. Many families use contaminated water for cooking and washing, intensifying the health crisis. According to a recent WHO report (December 19, 2023), approximately two litres of water per person per day are available for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), far below the recommended minimum of 15 litres. Since early 2023, more than 30,000 cases of cholera have been recorded in North Kivu, where over two million displaced people now reside.
Displaced families in Nyiragongo use contaminated water sources due to limited access to clean water. Photo: The Niles / Daniel Buuma
When water is available, it comes at a price many cannot afford. Displaced individuals pay 500 Congolese Francs (about USD 0.18) per jerry can—a substantial amount for families who have lost their homes and livelihoods.
“It may seem small, but when you have nothing, it’s a significant expense,” says Dushimwe, an 18-year-old Nyabanda displaced people’s camp resident.
Beyond the financial strain, residents often spend hours waiting in line for water, which could be used to find food or work. The burden of accessing water adds to the economic hardships that displaced families face.
The price of water poses a financial burden for displaced families in Nyiragongo. Photo: The Niles / Daniel Buuma
“We have gone more than a week without clean water,” says Tushimwe, a resident of Nyiragongo’s camp. The water, often sourced from Lake Kivu in Goma and transported 15 kilometres to Kanyarutshinya, is difficult to access.
Another resident, Neema, shares her experience: “I wake up at 6 a.m. to fetch water, but by 11 a.m., I’m still waiting. Soldiers arrive and cut the line, bringing their jerry cans. We don’t know where to get water from NGOs, so many people walk up to two kilometres searching for clean water. It’s unbearable.”
Logistical and security challenges have disrupted water distribution. Even when water is delivered, it is often insufficient for the camp’s needs, leaving many residents without basic access.
Waiting in line for water is an arduous and lengthy process for many in Nyiragongo’s camps. Photo: The Niles / Daniel Buuma
Displaced people in Nyiragongo urgently need support. “We need help,” says Andre, a resident of Nyabanda camp. Clean water is essential for survival, and we are running out of options.”
The humanitarian crisis demands immediate and coordinated action. Organisations and governments are being called upon to increase aid and implement sustainable solutions, such as establishing infrastructure for clean water access. Swift intervention is crucial to prevent further suffering and to support displaced populations as they rebuild their lives.
Residents plead for clean water and international assistance to address the crisis. Photo: The Niles / Daniel Buuma
As conditions in Nyiragongo worsen, immediate action is crucial. Addressing the water crisis will alleviate the suffering of displaced people and help prevent a full-scale health catastrophe.
International organisations, local governments, and humanitarian agencies must collaborate to deliver emergency relief and long-term solutions. Without prompt intervention, the situation could escalate into a severe health crisis with devastating consequences for already vulnerable displaced communities. International support is vital to uphold the basic human right to clean water and to avert further humanitarian disasters.
Meeting the needs of Nyiragongo’s displaced people is challenging. Photo: The Niles / Daniel Buuma
* Note: The names used in this article have been changed to protect the individuals‘ privacy.
