The food aid project was led by the Evangelical Alliance of the Congo (AEC) within the framework of the World Evangelical Alliance to support 400 survivors of the floods of May 4, 2023, in Bushushu and Nyamukubi in the Democratic Republic of Congo. These villages, located on Lake Kivu and along National Route 2, were struck by catastrophic landslides exacerbated by deforestation and unsustainable agricultural practices. The disaster resulted in significant loss of life and property, displacing thousands and leaving many without basic necessities. The AEC conducted a rapid assessment using participatory methods to determine humanitarian needs and identify the most vulnerable individuals requiring assistance.
The project focused on three categories of survivors: people who had not previously received assistance, the elderly, and people with disabilities. Implementation involved local leaders in selecting beneficiaries, direct interviews, on-site visits, and community engagement through sermons and awareness campaigns. Despite significant challenges, such as the overwhelming number of people in need and limited access to the affected areas, the AEC succeeded in delivering vital food and medical assistance, bringing a glimmer of hope to the disaster-stricken communities.
The situation remains catastrophic, with significant unmet needs. Health services are overwhelmed, and the risk of epidemics is high due to inadequate sanitation and decomposing bodies. The loss of social and economic investment has further exacerbated poverty in the community. While the project has had a positive impact on the selected beneficiaries, the scale of the disaster necessitates further support and additional funding to fully address the needs of flood survivors in Bushushu and Nyamukubi.