Thanks to the mobilization led by Harish Jagtani, more than 80 tons of food supplies, a mobile clinic, and free medical care were provided to the victims—a powerful act of solidarity with the affected populations of South Kivu. 

Kalehe Tragedy: HJ Foundation Brings Humanitarian and Medical Assistance to Victims 

This is the first private relief initiative of its kind for the victims of the landslide that occurred on May 4 in the villages of Nyamukubi and Bushushu, in the Kalehe territory (South Kivu). Businessman Harish Jagtani, through his foundation, mobilized a significant amount (80 tons) of food and non-food supplies to help alleviate, even slightly, the suffering of these distressed communities. The shipment was transported from the public port of Goma (North Kivu) to the Muhini Vital port (South Kivu) during the night of Tuesday, May 9 to Wednesday, May 10, 2023. 

"On Wednesday, May 10, the Harish Jagtani Foundation delivered to Kalehe: 30 cans of oil, 1,000 bags of rice, 7 bags of sugar, 4 generators, 300 bags of maize flour, 200 boxes of sardines, 300 boxes of biscuits, 30 boxes of salt, 100 bags of charcoal, toilet containers, mattresses, beds, medicines—just to name the food and non-food items donated to the victims of this disaster," stated Jemima Iragi, head of operations at HJ Foundation. 

This natural disaster caused not only material damage but also significant human loss. According to the official count, more than 430 people have died, and thousands are still missing. In response, HJ Foundation mobilized 81 coffins to ensure a dignified burial for some of the victims. 

A mobile clinic was set up, and around ten qualified doctors and nurses were deployed to provide free medical care for 15 days to those affected, including the injured. 

“We came with a team of doctors and set up a 20-bed mobile clinic. Additionally, we brought all necessary equipment to provide appropriate care,” said Mr. Jagtani. 

Many flood survivors also received free healthcare along with psychosocial support. 

The residents of Kalehe and their local leaders expressed heartfelt thanks to HJ Foundation for this charitable act. 

Testimony from a victim’s family: 

"This is the first substantial aid we’ve received here. After the government, here is a man using his own resources to help us and show solidarity. He even thought of our deceased loved ones. We will now be able to bury them with dignity because the coffins have been provided," testified one of the victims.