UNICEF reveals systemic sexual violence against children in eastern Congo

In eastern Congo, thousands of children have been victims of rape and sexual violence over the span of two months, as reported by UNICEF. This alarming situation coincided with a resurgence of conflict in the region, particularly after the M23 rebels intensified their offensive beginning in January 2025. Government forces and these rebels have been fighting over control of strategic areas in eastern Congo, including major urban centers such as Goma and Bukavu. The conflict has deeply impacted the lives of children, with their vulnerability to sexual violence escalating significantly during this period. According to UNICEF spokesperson James Elder, children represent a substantial percentage of the nearly 10,000 reported cases of sexual violence during January and February. Specifically, it is estimated that children make up between 35% to 45% of these cases. UNICEF's reports highlighted the grave reality of the situation, stating a shocking statistic that indicates a child is raped approximately every half hour. This continuous wave of violence has created a humanitarian crisis, leaving numerous young children without protection or necessary care. Elder expressed concerns regarding the significant funding gaps that UNICEF faces, which threaten essential support for children caught in gender-based violence in armed conflict. Without sufficient financial resources, nearly 250,000 children are at risk of missing out on crucial services that can provide protection and assistance against such violence. The current situation is precarious, with Elder emphasizing that UNICEF has a limited time frame of just 12 weeks to address these issues before the impact of funding shortages is fully realized. The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, which has already displaced over 7 million people and resulted in an estimated 3,000 deaths, is driven by numerous armed groups, including M23. This group is one of approximately 100 armed factions operating in the mineral-rich territory of eastern Congo, where they exploit ongoing instability for their gain. This systemic violence not only illuminates the depths of human suffering but also underscores the urgent need for international attention and proactive intervention to protect the most vulnerable members of society, particularly children, in the eastern Congo region.