West and Central Africa: UNHCR Warns Over 19 Million People in Distress

Kinshasa, November 20, 2025 - During a six-day mission to the Democratic Republic of Congo, UNHCR Regional Director Abdouraouf Gnon-Konde raised the alarm about the worsening humanitarian situation in West and Central Africa, where an estimated 5 million refugees and 14 million internally displaced persons urgently need assistance.

Gnon-Konde highlighted that funding shortages, particularly a 60% reduction in U.S. contributions, have forced the closure of 30 UNHCR offices in the region, including several in the DRC. He called on international donors to renew their commitments and support efforts to restore the dignity and survival of affected populations.