Story perspectives

Soldiers' Widows in Congo Demand Pensions Amid Crisis

4/16/2026

Summary

Story summary

Widows of soldiers in Beni, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, live in a dire makeshift camp after fleeing Goma due to violence by the M23 rebel group.
They demand access to their late husbands' pensions, which they have not received despite official documentation.
About 250 households disrupt operations at the Mulekera youth centre, where they sought refuge.
Local NGOs warn of severe health risks, including malnutrition-related deaths among children, as the rainy season threatens shelter.

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Story summary

Widows of soldiers in Beni, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, live in a dire makeshift camp after fleeing Goma due to violence by the M23 rebel group.
They demand access to their late husbands' pensions, which they have not received despite official documentation.
About 250 households disrupt operations at the Mulekera youth centre, where they sought refuge.
Local NGOs warn of severe health risks, including malnutrition-related deaths among children, as the rainy season threatens shelter.