Salesian missionaries working and living in the Democratic Republic of the Congo* (DRC) are delivering hope and essential aid amidst two emergencies: escalating violence that is forcing thousands of families from their homes; and a surge in the mpox virus that mostly threatens young children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

At the Don Bosco Ngangi refugee camp in Goma, more than 3,500 families have found safe shelter from the violence and bloodshed devastating their communities. Salesians missionaries at the camp are providing displaced people with humanitarian aid in the form of nutritious food and other necessities. Additionally, the Salesian-run center operates a medical dispensary which has become a vital asset as the mpox disease ravages the country.

In 2024, Africa was afflicted with more than 15,000 cases of mpox resulting in over 1,000 deaths – most of those occurring in the DRC. Nearly two-thirds of cases have affected children under the age of 15, and 39% of those under the age of five.

“People living at the Don Bosco Ngangi camp are especially vulnerable to this mpox epidemic. The camp is extremely overcrowded and the hygienic conditions are not adequate,” explains Father Michael Conway, Director of Salesian Mission. “Doctors are concerned because these people already have a weakened immune system, and the epidemic could have really dangerous effects.”

At least four cases of the infection have already occurred at Don Bosco Ngangi and Salesian missionaries there are taking urgent action. Precautions like those implemented to combat COVID-19 have been put in place to avoid contagion.

Salesians in the country are also calling on the international community to assist with donations and humanitarian aid to help alleviate the challenges these displaced youth and families continue to face.

Learn more about our work in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Our mission is to offer safe refuge, essential care – and hope – to children and families left homeless by violence and war. What’s your mission?

*Any goods, services, or funds provided by Salesian Missions to programs located in this country were administered in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, including sanctions administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Asset Control.