The threat of another volcanic eruption of Mount Nyiragongo — one of the world’s most active and dangerous volcanoes — is forcing the evacuation of tens of thousands of people from the city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
On May 22, Mount Nyiragongo erupted, spewing torrents of lava into villages and toward Goma, a lakeside city of about 2 million people. At least 32 people have died, and hundreds more are injured or missing. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) warns that nearly 280,000 children may face displacement due to seismic activity.
Lava stopped short of the Goma International Airport, which remains closed until further notice. Families fled in the middle of the night; others stood on roofs and watched the fiery red skies as the deadly volcano claimed crops and everything in its path in the eastern DRC. The eruption also destroyed three health centers and 12 schools. After this initial explosion, residents expressed that they may have dodged a very dangerous situation.
Followed by a series of earthquakes and tremors, some felt as far away in the Rwandan capital city of Kigali, authorities issued an evacuation order on May 27, warning that risks of an eruption or further damages were possible.
World Vision is working with partners to address the emergency needs of affected children and their families both in the DRC and Rwanda.
We’re finalizing discussions with the World Food Programme (WFP) to distribute food to displaced families in the DRC. World Vision is the largest implementing partner of the WFP.
In Rwanda, World Vision will begin response operations in Rubavu, where thousands have gathered. Teams in Rwanda are already in Rubavu conducting assessments and coordinating new arrivals.
Pray for children and families impacted by disasters like the Mount Nyiragongo eruption: Heavenly Father, we grieve with communities suffering from disasters like this volcano eruption in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Speed the restoration of community life so children can feel secure again.
Give families strength and perseverance while they rebuild their homes and livelihoods. We pray for disaster survivors to find refuge in You. Give to provide life-saving aid to children and families following disasters.
If your church would like to do a love offering for donations, checks can be mailed to the address below. Please indicate source “W10001213 – Disaster Relief Fund” for World Vision staff.
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