Nearly 3,000 people have lost their lives in the city of Goma, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, as the United Nations reports. The city has fallen to rebels after intense battles with the Congolese army, marking a significant escalation in regional conflict. More than 2,000 civilians have sought refuge at UN peacekeeping bases within Goma. The United Nations has expressed "grave concern" over the potential loss of Bukavu's Kavumu airport, a vital asset for civilian and humanitarian operations across South Kivu.
The Congolese government has yet to officially confirm the rebels' takeover of Goma but acknowledges their presence. M23 leader Corneille Nangaa has made clear his group's objective: advancing towards Kinshasa, the national capital. The province of North Kivu, where Goma is situated, is rich in rare minerals, including extensive coltan deposits, adding an economic dimension to the ongoing conflict.
Accusations have emerged from the Congolese government, the United States, and UN experts suggesting that neighboring Rwanda backs the M23 group. Rwanda's President, Paul Kagame, has stated his nation would take necessary actions to protect itself, while denying knowledge of Rwandan military forces operating in Congo. The M23 rebel group is primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis who separated from the Congolese army over a decade ago.
“We are going to fight until we get to Kinshasa. We have come to Goma to stay; we are not going to withdraw. We are going to move forward from Goma to Bukavu … up to Kinshasa,” – Corneille Nangaa
Despite the rebel alliance announcing a ceasefire from Tuesday, UN officials remain skeptical of its longevity. The situation in South Kivu province is "particularly concerning," given that M23 forces are advancing closer to Bukavu. The M23 group has acquired several territories in recent weeks in Congo's east, and their leader has voiced ambitions of capturing more cities, including Kinshasa—situated approximately 930 miles (1,500 kilometers) from Goma on the country's western periphery.
“We remain under occupation (in Goma). The situation is still highly volatile with a persistent risk of escalation,” – Vivian van de Perre
The takeover has resulted in severe disruptions within Goma. Vivian van de Perre, a local authority, reported that all exit routes from Goma fall under rebel control and the airport has been shut until further notice.
“All exit routes from Goma are under their control and the airport, also under M23 control, is closed until further notice.” – Vivian van de Perre
The escalating violence has intensified human suffering, leading to mass displacement and a burgeoning humanitarian crisis. The current death toll might rise as reports indicate many decomposing bodies remain in certain areas.
“The escalating violence has led to immense human suffering, displacement and a growing humanitarian crisis,” – Vivian van de Perre
“There are still many decomposing bodies in certain areas.” – Vivian van de Perre
The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) has framed the conflict as a response to a humanitarian crisis allegedly caused by the Kinshasa regime.
“in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the Kinshasa regime,” – Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC)
