Displaced Lawa Villagers Struggle with Health and Food Crisis Amid Escalating Conflict

Pajau Media

April 4, 2025

Villagers from Lawa have been forced to flee into nearby forests and mountainous terrain to escape advancing junta troops, and now face severe challenges related to health and food security—particularly impacting children and the elderly, according to those affected.

“All of Lawa’s residents have evacuated, leaving only a few behind to watch over the village. For about a week now, we—villagers from Lawa Magawng Taung—have been taking refuge in the forest. As time goes on, children and older people are falling ill, and it's becoming increasingly difficult to find food. That’s why we’re planning to relocate from the forest to an area near Namatti Wa Aung village,” said one displaced villager.

Starting March 31, combined forces of the junta and allied militias moved into Lawa village in large numbers, triggering mass displacement. While many sought shelter in the surrounding forests, others fled toward Namatti and Mogaung for safety.

Locals reported that the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) launched an offensive on April 2 against the junta-aligned forces stationed in Lawa, successfully pushing them out. However, displaced residents say life in the forest has become increasingly unbearable, prompting preparations to return to village areas despite ongoing risks.

Lawa village originally housed nearly 1,000 families. At present, approximately 100 households remain in hiding in the forest, facing a critical shortage of food, shelter, healthcare, and other basic necessities as living conditions continue to deteriorate.

Reported by: Pilan U