ISÔKO USA and Mahoro Peace Association are leading an international campaign urging urgent action to address the worsening humanitarian and security crisis facing minority communities in Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Amid growing concerns over ethnic violence and systemic neglect, these organizations are mobilizing global support to pressure the Congolese government and international policymakers to intervene.
Despite repeated calls from U.S. leaders urging President Félix Tshisekedi to act, Kinshasa stands accused of backing extremist militias, including the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR). This group, notorious for its role in the 1994 Rwandan genocide, continues to launch attacks against the Tutsi population in Eastern DRC, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
In Minembwe, a predominantly Tutsi enclave, residents face critical shortages of food and medical care. The region is on the brink of catastrophe as displaced families struggle to survive without adequate assistance. “If they do not die because of bullets, they will certainly die because of hunger and lack of medical attention,” said Adele Kibasumba, President of the Mahoro Peace Association. The crisis has prompted ISÔKO USA and Mahoro Peace Association to intensify advocacy efforts, calling for immediate humanitarian aid and diplomatic intervention.
U.S.-based nonprofit organizations, including ISÔKO USA and Mahoro Peace Association, are calling on Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other lawmakers to take decisive action. They urge increased diplomatic pressure on the DRC government to engage in negotiations with all political and non-state actors, including the M23 Movement, to establish a lasting peace framework. They are also advocating for the fair distribution of humanitarian aid to displaced Congolese, particularly marginalized minorities who often face exclusion from relief efforts.
In addition, they call for sanctions on Congolese officials accused of inciting ethnic violence and supporting armed groups, as well as the repatriation of FDLR militants through structured disarmament and reintegration programs to neutralize the security threat posed by these groups. Furthermore, they emphasize the need for civic education and peacebuilding initiatives to dismantle deeply ingrained ethnic divisions and promote reconciliation.
To raise awareness and push for immediate intervention, ISÔKO USA and Mahoro Peace Association have organized key advocacy events. A press conference is scheduled for Monday, March 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST at the National Press Club, featuring human rights activists, policymakers, and representatives from affected communities. A peaceful protest will also take place on the same day at 8:30 AM at the U.S. Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., to amplify calls for justice and an end to ethnic violence in Eastern DRC.
For media interviews or further information, please contact:
Mrs. Adele Kibasumba
Tel: 585-831-1005
Email: mahoropeaceassociation@gmail.com
Mr. Safari Munyarugendo
Tel: 256-527-3339
Email: isoko.usa2021@gmail.com
With tensions escalating and no immediate solutions in sight, ISÔKO USA and Mahoro Peace Association stress that swift international action is essential to prevent further atrocities and restore stability in Eastern DRC.
