ACT Works amid Renewed Conflict in Congo

     CHICAGO (ELCA) -- Action by Churches Together (ACT) has been in regular contact with its members in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) since the rebellion was launched throughout the country. Christian Aid and Dutch Interchurch Aid, ACT members, are providing emergency assistance throughout areas of South Kivu and North Kivu.
     ACT-related staff and offices have remained in Bukavu and Goma.  ACT is a worldwide network of churches, including the Lutheran World Federation, meeting human need through coordinated emergency response.
     While most expatriates have evacuated the rebel-held Bukavu to Rwanda, two international agencies have chosen to remain in the city, ACT-Christian Aid and Save the Children-UK.  Christian Aid is collaborating with local partners on emergency needs assessments.   The primary focus is to gather information and judge the need for food, ACT reports.
     Christian Aid is ensuring the safety of project staff and establishing working relationships with the current authorities.  Present insecurity prevents access in many areas, ACT reports, but the hope is that during the coming days Christian Aid staff will return to a normal schedule of work, including longer-term planning as well as short-term emergency work.
     ACT reports some expatriates in Goma have been allowed to evacuate to Rwanda.  Dutch Interchurch Aid says the overall situation in Goma remains calm, and its representative will remain there to continue working with local church and other agency partners.

For information contact:
Ann Hafften, Director 1-773-380-2958 or NEWS@ELCA.ORG
http://www.elca.org/co/news/current.html