Press statement on the Orientale Province (DRC) by Ms. Valerie Amos, Under-Secretary- General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, 10 March 2011, Dungu

Today I was appalled by the testimonies I heard.

A few hundred members of the LRA commit horrific atrocities. These are not large numbers, but they are responsible for nearly 300,000 people being currently displaced. Their brutality creates fear in communities. The weak presence of the Government and under-resourcing of MONUSCO has meant that the LRA have not been stopped.

The Government must strengthen its presence in this area. MONUSCO must also try to step up its operations. UN Member States need to provide significantly more resources to MONUSCO to enhance their effectiveness in protecting people from LRA attacks.

Humanitarian workers have assisted hundreds of thousands of people with food, water, health care, and more. Despite the ongoing insecurity, we have reached over 65 percent of those in need. Our presence is also a deterrent for the LRA, and our advocacy is crucial to maintain international interest in this situation.

But this is not enough. People want respect. They want dignity.

I was deeply touched by the reception I received today. People with nothing. Their lives shattered. Yet, with faith that the situation can change. That we in the United Nations, and the international community, can help, can do more.

We need to redouble our efforts to find a lasting solution, a regional solution to this crisis.