Village urchins in rural Katanga province. The listless blonde hair color, round faces and extended bellies are signs and symptoms of severe malnutrition. Although exceptionally rich in natural resources, the DRC is presently ranked 168 out of 169 on the UNDP’s Human Development Index. Worsening socio-economic conditions, political instability and civil war have contributed to endemic poverty in the country.
Lukoka, Katanga province, DR Congo. 05/03/2009
Photo © J.B. Russell
