The UN agency informed that severe access restrictions, stemming from both insecurity and administrative hurdles, are hindering vital operations in the territories of Fizi, Mwenga, and Uvira in eastern DRC.

“Although a period of relative calm this month has allowed for the gradual reopening of schools in the cities of Uvira and Baraka, the humanitarian situation remains unstable,” the report added, and noted that more than 330,000 refugees remain in the area due to the conflict.

The body indicated that humanitarian partners are scaling up their response, but fighting and bureaucracy continue to slow the arrival of aid.

“OCHA continues to work with local authorities to ensure humanitarian access and promote the free movement of humanitarian workers and supplies,” the UN agency affirmed, and urged all parties to respect international humanitarian law and facilitate immediate, safe, and unimpeded access to people in need.

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