World Central Kitchn,  Together with Panzi Hospital, Launches Emergency Food Relief in Eastern DRC Amid Escalating Crisis

The organization’s first response in a country devastated by years of conflict 

BUKAVU, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – World Central Kitchen (WCK), the non-profit organization founded by Chef José Andrés, today announced the activation of an emergency food response in the conflict-affected eastern region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where violence has persisted for decades and recently escalated. Working in South Kivu alongside trusted local partner Panzi Hospital, WCK is supporting the preparation and distribution of fresh, nourishing meals to the hospital’s staff, patients, and those accompanying patients.

Although conflict in eastern DRC has affected communities for more than 25 years, recent fighting in and around Bukavu has sharply intensified, cutting families off from foodways, water access, and basic services, and forcing widespread displacement. As a result, communities are struggling to meet basic food needs.

Through its locally driven model, WCK is supporting meal service at Panzi Hospital, prioritizing culturally appropriate food while helping sustain local food systems. Ingredients are sourced locally whenever possible, and meals are prepared in close coordination with Congolese-led partners who know their communities best.

WCK is proud to collaborate with Panzi Hospital, a prestigious institution founded by Nobel Peace Laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege that has long served communities in eastern DRC through years of instability. This partnership enables WCK to respond quickly and responsibly, reaching families in urgent need while supporting trusted local institutions.

José Andrés, Founder of World Central Kitchen, says:

“It’s an honor to support the work of Dr. Mukwege and the communities of eastern Congo. Across the world, we have seen that in the worst of situations, the best of humanity shows up. Panzi Hospital is one of those places where that is powerfully true. 

“As the son of nurses, I know how medical workers often put themselves second, after their patients. At World Central Kitchen, we know how important it is for the doctors, nurses and families to eat a hot meal, so they can focus on the health of the patients.”

Dr. Denis Mukwege, Founder of Panzi Hospital, says.

 “In eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, where ongoing armed violence and mass displacement have deeply disrupted daily life, access to food is not only a matter of survival but a critical component of healing and dignity.” 

“At Panzi Hospital, we see every day how trauma, hunger, and illness are intertwined. Our partnership with World Central Kitchen reflects a shared commitment to stand with communities not only to help them survive, but to help them heal. By ensuring access to nutritious meals alongside medical and psychosocial care, we are helping patients and their families regain strength, resilience, and hope.”

As needs continue to grow, WCK remains focused on scaling this localized response, ensuring communities have consistent access to safe, prepared meals—providing not only nourishment, but dignity and care during an ongoing humanitarian crisis.

For more information or media enquiries, please contact:  

Roberta Alves, Director of Media Relations at ralves@worldcentralkitchen.org or +1 202.400.7483

Our full media team is reachable at press@wck.org