What Is Happening in the DR Congo
Fighting between rebels and the DR Congo's army has intensified since the beginning of the year, with the rebels gaining control of more territory than ever. Over 500,000 people have been forced to flee their homes since January 1.
UPDATE 1/27 — Rebel army has seized control of Goma (population 2 million).
UPDATE 2/4 — Multiple reports of mass graves. Over 3,000 people have been killed during the siege.
UPDATE 3/11 - The hospital Exile sends our children to, which recently lost 150 patients in an abduction rais, is now rationing anesthesia and pain medication, prortizing only the most critical cases. Since January, over 8,000 people have been killed and 1 million displaced in DR Congo, with majority being children and women.
This immense rebel army advanced upon Goma, a city with a population of nearly 2 million, in the final week of January — taking control of the city on 1/27.
On the city's outskirts, tens of thousands have been sheltering in displacement camps after fleeing their homes and towns. Since capturing Goma, rebels have destroyed these camps, forcing countless families to flee yet again. Where will they go?
Exile serves thousands in this region
Over 700 young people from Exile have been displaced and face the greatest risk. They will feel and experience the impact of the bombs before anyone else. As the situation worsens, more children and families are seeking refuge at Exile's Goma-based headquarters, the Peace Lives Center.
We urgently ask for your prayers and support. Pray for God, who holds the universe in the palm of his hand, to demonstrate His mercy and compassion on the people of Congo — whom He loves, and protect them.
Emergency Response Plan:
SAFETY: We're providing a safe space for youth who fled violence, helping them heal and rebuild their lives with hope and stability.
FOOD: We've distributed essential food and supplies to families caring for vulnerable or orphaned youth, easing their struggles and ensuring the children's needs are met.
TRAUMA-FOCUSED ART CARE: We offer counseling to help youth process trauma, reducing nightmares, fear, and anxiety, and supporting their emotional healing.
SPIRITUAL CARE: Through prayer and ministry, we provide spiritual comfort and strength, offering hope and helping youth hold onto their faith during hardship.
Prayer Requests:
- Millions of displaced children & families — Pray for the Lord's protection and mercies.
- Protection & provision — food & shelter, health, emergency relief. Pray that the security walls surrounding EI’s compound stand strong, protecting all inside and that there will be space for everyone who comes there for safety.
- Wisdom for Exile team & leaders in DRC. In the face of weariness and concern for their families. Pray for their well-being, endurance, and wisdom in the face of extreme adversities.
- Hundreds of thousands fleeing on foot. Pray for their safety, health, and shelter.
- Hearts & minds of millions experiencing physical and psychological trauma.
- Regional & world leaders to respond to this humanitarian crisis.