Orphan Crisis in the DRC: Estimated 5.4 Million (2020)

As of 2020, the Democratic Republic of the Congo had an estimated 5.4 million orphans—one of the highest totals globally. This crisis stems from:

• Decades of armed conflict killing parents
• High mortality from HIV/AIDS, malaria, TB, and other diseases
• Maternal mortality during childbirth
• Extreme poverty forcing child abandonment

Many orphans live in child-headed households or on the streets, vulnerable to exploitation, recruitment by armed groups, and lack of education. International NGOs and local organizations provide care, but needs vastly outstrip resources. Strengthening social protection systems and peacebuilding are essential for long-term solutions.