Humanitarian Context
In August 2025, escalating clashes between Mobondo militia and the FARDC forced more than 13,250 people (2,650 households) to flee to the territory of Popokabaka. Hosted in overcrowded homes and temporarily repurposed public structures, displaced families were facing:
- Severe food insecurity
- Limited access to safe drinking water
- Increased pressure on local health services
In response to this emergency, HAA, in consortium with Caritas Congo and AFPDE, launched a rapid humanitarian intervention funded by Start Network.
Beneficiary Overview
During this intervention, 1,000 individuals were directly assisted, reaching a total of 6,000 people across affected communities. Support was provided to both displaced households and host community households, ensuring that the most impacted families received timely, life-saving assistance.
- 800 displaced households received essential support to restore dignity and stability.
- 200 host community households were assisted in recognition of their solidarity and the additional pressure placed on their limited resources.
A particular focus was placed on ensuring that assistance reached those with heightened needs, including:
- Older persons
- Persons with disabilities
- Child-headed households
- Female-headed households
Accountability & Transparency
Community participation was central to our intervention:
- Engagement and coordination with local authorities
- Beneficiary lists validated by community committees
- Awareness sessions on beneficiary rights
23 complaints recorded – 100% resolved satisfactorily
Key Lessons Learned
- Pre-distribution simulations increase efficiency
- Daily monitoring reduces targeting and delivery errors
- Joint coordination between MEAL and Finance strengthens quality
- Systematic prioritization of vulnerable groups is essential
This life-saving response was made possible through Start Network funding, implemented by Caritas Congo, HAA, and AFPDE, with the strong support of local structures in Popokabaka.
Together, we are restoring hope and dignity to families affected by conflict.
