Cholera Epidemic in Goma, Zaire Reaches Catastrophic Proportions

Strategic Insights -

Rwandan refugees in Goma, Zaire, are facing an unprecedented humanitarian crisis as a cholera epidemic has killed over 7,000 people and threatens to claim up to 50% of the estimated 80,000 people in danger of contracting the disease within a week. Aid officials warn that only a military-style operation can reverse the scale of catastrophe, with UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Ray Wilkinson, stating, "Only a military-style operation can rescue this situation. The aid agencies are overwhelmed." The situation has spiralled beyond the capability of the United Nations and international relief agencies, with refugees forced to choose between remaining in the camp and risking death or returning to Rwanda despite concerns of reprisals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 7,000 Rwandan refugees have died from cholera in Goma, Zaire, with estimates suggesting up to 50% of the 80,000 people in danger may die within a week.
  • Aid officials warn that a military-style operation is necessary to reverse the scale of catastrophe, with UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Mr. Ray Wilkinson, stating that aid agencies are overwhelmed.
  • Refugees in the camp are facing impossible choices, with some fearing reprisals if they return to Rwanda, while others risk death if they remain in the camp.
  • Zaire's Prime Minister, Mr. Joseph Kengo Wa Dondo, has pledged to reopen the border with Rwanda to enable refugees to return, but aid workers report that killings continue in the Zaire camps.
  • The US has pledged to parachute food to refugees and send equipment that can purify 4.5 million liters of water a day, with a relief effort estimated to cost $250 million.
  • 21 US Army and Air Force personnel have arrived in Goma, with the effort expected to grow to 4,000 people.

Statistics:

  • At least 7,000 Rwandan refugees have died from cholera in Goma, Zaire.
  • Up to 80,000 people are in danger of contracting cholera, with estimates suggesting up to 50% may die within a week.
  • The US relief effort is estimated to cost $250 million.
  • 21 US Army and Air Force personnel have arrived in Goma, with the effort expected to grow to 4,000 people.
  • The US has pledged to provide equipment that can purify 4.5 million liters of water a day.

Sources:

  • "Goma, Zaire, Sunday: Senior aid officials warn of only one way to stop catastrophic cholera outbreak among refugees," source not provided.
  • "Rwandan Refugees Face Impossible Choices in Zaire," source not provided.
  • "US to parachute food to refugees in Zaire," source not provided.
  • "Zaire's Prime Minister pledges to reopen border with Rwanda," source not provided.