Central African Refugees Suffering in Congo

By Marienne ZINGOUT | LAMINE MÉDIA Translated into English by Susan CARTER-JONES l LNC

(Zémio, July 23, 2026 | LNC) Hundreds of Central African refugees who fled insecurity in Zémio, in the Haut-Mbomou region, have ended up in Zapaï, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The site is located in the Bas-Uéle province, near the Central African border and about 8 kilometers from the town of Zémio (separated by the Mbomou River). However, they lack everything and are enduring severe hardships, including a lack of healthcare and no access to clean water. Compounding this situation is a surge in the prices of basic necessities. Consequently, many refugees cross the river back to Zémio to obtain supplies. However, the crossing costs nearly 2,250 CFA francs per person without luggage, and up to 5,000 CFA francs with goods. Everything is expensive; for instance, a simple bar of soap sells for 500 CFA francs—a price out of reach for many families. They are appealing to Central African and Congolese authorities as well as humanitarian organizations, but so far, there has been no response.

LNC Website: lncinfos.com

Photo: UNICEF ©

Date: July 23, 2026

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