Kinshasa, June 24th, 2026 (CPA).- The Red Cross of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on Tuesday condemned the killing of two of its volunteers, which occurred on June 16th, 2026 in Kakumba village (Musiru area), Walungu territory, South Kivu Province (eastern DRC), according to a statement consulted on Wednesday. “The Red Cross of the Democratic Republic of the Congo expresses its deep shock and strongly condemns the killing of two of its volunteers, which occurred on June 16th, 2026 in Kakumba village (Musiru area), Walungu territory, South Kivu Province. The volunteers, Byamungu Mugisho Kabuha and Mugisho MParanya Romain, were engaged in a humanitarian mission aimed at improving access to drinking water for vulnerable populations when they were killed by unidentified armed men,” the statement read.
According to Grégoire Mateso, National President of the Red Cross of the DRC, the volunteers were clearly identifiable by the Red Cross emblem, a universal symbol of neutrality, impartiality and humanitarian assistance. He said their sacrifice tragically highlights the extreme dangers faced daily by humanitarian workers in eastern DRC. “Our heartfelt thoughts go to their families and to the entire International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement,” he added. The organization paid tribute to its fallen volunteers, describing their dedication and courage as a lasting source of inspiration. It further stressed that any act of violence against humanitarian workers undermines the capacity of aid organizations to reach vulnerable populations.
The Red Cross reiterated its commitment to alleviating human suffering and protecting human dignity. The security situation in Walungu territory and across South Kivu remains highly volatile, with recurring clashes causing massive population displacement and forcing tens of thousands to seek refuge and assistance.