The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), located in Central Africa, has spent decades in conflict and economic unrest. DRC’s 2024 Humanitarian Response Plan estimates that more than 25 million people are anticipated to face increased needs in 2024 with approximately 21% of the population likely to experience acute food insecurity.

Growing conflict in 2023 displaced more than 6.38 million people primarily from North and South Kivus where the EQUAL consortium is working. Eastern DRC – including in North and South Kivu provinces – has experienced decades of instability with regular armed conflict often linked to the illegal exploitation of resources. Near weekly clashes between armed groups have forced thousands to flee. Disease outbreaks, food insecurity, and a growing presence of displaced persons have further strained the already weak health system. 

The socio-political context, coupled with funding and staffing shortages, have resulted in a weak public health system unable to meet the needs of the population. Few people are vaccinated against preventable diseases while cholera, measles, Ebola, and COVID-19, among other infectious diseases continue to affect public health.