The Scottish Government has approved £200,000 of aid from its International Development Fund for aid agencies working to alleviate suffering in the conflict-ridden Democratic Republic of Congo.

Linda Fabiani MSP said, "As a responsible nation it is our duty to provide support, where we can, to those affected by humanitarian disasters. That is why we are providing this emergency funding in support of the vital work being undertaken by Scottish charities on the ground in the DRC."

Hundreds of thousands of people have been caught up in the conflict, with many forced into makeshift camps with little or no facilities, clean water or food.

"While there has been little recent media coverage of the crisis in the DRC, there is an ongoing Disasters Emergency Committee appeal. It remains a desperate situation for the hundreds of thousands of people caught up in the conflict ... This is a situation that
needs immediate help to alleviate suffering and create greater security and
stability for people in this region.”

The Scottish Government is giving £100,000 to Mercy Corps, and £50,000 each to CBM, formerly the Christian Blind Mission, and SCIAF, the Scottish Catholic International Aid Fund.

Mercy Corps will use the funding to help provide water, sanitation and hygiene services in order to prevent the spread of cholera and other diseases. CBM will be helping address the needs of those with disabilities, whilst SCIAF will be working to provide household commodities and medical kits, as well as providing counseling, support and medical care to victims of sexual violence.

Paul Chtinis, SCIAF Chief Executive Paul, said, "The situation in the east of the DRC continues to be very difficult for the civilian population. This money will be invaluable in helping SCIAF and its local partner to continue its life-saving work helping some of the many thousands of innocent people who have been displaced by the recent fighting."

The fresh funds will be used to provide blankets, temporary shelters, cooking utensils and containers for wate and will also go towards equipping local health centres with medical supplies and provide support for women who have been subjected to rape and sexual violence.