Irish charity provides water and supplies to volcano and earthquake-affected Goma

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An Irish charity provides water and essential supplies to people devastated by volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Residents of the African city of Goma are evacuated after the earthquakes and magma that followed the eruption of Mount Nyiragongo on May 22.

While most residents have since returned, thousands of homes and public buildings, along with water and other infrastructure, have been destroyed or damaged.

Now, Dublin-based humanitarian organization Concern Worldwide is responding to the disaster and working to help prevent the spread of waterborne diseases, such as cholera.

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The locals return to Goma

The locals return to Goma

Concern Country Director in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Russell Gates, said: “We are rushing to support the thousands of families affected by the blast.

“More than 200,000 people have lost access to water and it could take months for it to be restored, so it is imperative that we do what we can.

“We provide emergency relief to build latrines and water tanks, strengthen hygiene practices and distribute essential items to people who do not have access to water and who have lost their belongings after the explosion.”

Concern is also building 37 latrines in schools and a health center in Goma. Its team of aid workers is also providing essential items for the affected population, including jerrycans, buckets, blankets, sanitary napkins, soap, sleeping mats and kitchen utensils.

Much of this response is funded by an emergency donation of €117,000 from the Irish government’s overseas development programme, Irish Aid.

“Many of our employees live in Goma and used to live in the lava trail, and therefore also affected by having to relocate as per government orders,” Mr. Gates added.

“Once our team reached themselves and their families to safety, they immediately switched to how to help others and we are happy to be part of the response to make sure we are supporting as many people as possible.”

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