Clashes in Goma have escalated as militia and Rwandan forces invade the city, worsening the humanitarian crisis and impacting over 400,000 people this year. Fear grips residents, and international concern is rising over the potential for a broader conflict. Diplomatic efforts are being initiated amidst ongoing violence and escalating tensions between the DRC and Rwanda, who accuse each other of territorial ambitions and exploitation of resources.
Heavy artillery fire and gunshots filled the atmosphere in Goma, DR Congo, on Monday as state forces confronted militia fighters and Rwandan troops. Conflicting reports emerged regarding control of the city, which has faced significant unrest since the M23 armed group began advancing on it. Local residents, such as Lucie, expressed fear and uncertainty, stating, “We can hear the shooting outside our homes, we cannot leave.”
The M23 group has resurfaced since late 2021, aiming to reclaim territory in the mineral-rich North Kivu province, and violence with the Congolese army has escalated this year. Goma, the provincial capital, houses over a million residents, many of whom are displaced. The ongoing conflict has raised international alarms, with French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressing solidarity with DR Congo as fears of Goma falling intensify.
The humanitarian situation worsens as the latest skirmishes have displaced over 400,000 individuals since January, prompting concerns about a potential regional war. Patrick Muyaya, a government spokesman, indicated efforts are underway to prevent further loss of life. The M23 claimed victory, signaling a hostile takeover by stating it was a “glorious day marking the liberation for the city of Goma.”
Reports indicate M23 fighters and approximately 3,500 Rwandan soldiers entered Goma overnight following weeks of sustained advancement, causing heavy artillery exchanges in the city. On Tuesday, Kenyan President William Ruto announced a crisis summit attended by Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, while the African Union’s Peace and Security Council is also related to the matter.
Relations between the DRC and Rwanda remain strained, primarily influenced by historical events, including the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Accusations have been levied by Kinshasa against Kigali regarding ambitions for the region’s mineral riches. Concurrently, reports of a mass jailbreak and subsequent chaos erupted in Goma.
Five civilian casualties and numerous injuries were reported near Gisenyi as violence escalated at the border. Additionally, exchanges of fire occurred between Congolese forces and Rwandan troops. On Monday, Rwandan media mentioned transportation efforts to evacuate UN personnel from the volatile situation in Goma, highlighting an urgent need for safety measures.
Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner labeled the Rwandan troop reinforcement as a “declaration of war,” urging the UN for sanctions against Rwanda. Despite the criticism, Rwanda has systematically denied the allegations and asserted that its military presence is defensive. UN scrutiny amid these tensions has suggested Rwanda aims to exploit DRC’s mineral resources.
Repeated ceasefires in the region have been violated, with the last one established in late July. This ongoing turbulence underscores the deep-rooted and complex nature of the conflict, with continued calls for diplomatic resolutions yet to yield tangible results.
The conflict in eastern DR Congo, particularly around Goma, has a long-standing history, exacerbated by tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. The M23 movement, formed primarily by Tutsi fighters, has resurfaced to claim territory, complicating an already volatile environment characterized by displacement and violence. International reactions, including potential diplomatic summits, highlight the global concern regarding stability in the region and the humanitarian implications of the conflict.
The situation in Goma represents a critical flashpoint in the ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo, heavily influenced by historical tensions with Rwanda. The recent fighting has resulted in significant humanitarian implications, with thousands displaced and civilian casualties reported. As diplomatic efforts unfold, the complexities of the conflict underscore the urgent need for effective interventions to prevent further deterioration of peace in the region. The international community’s involvement and response will be pivotal in determining the future stability of Goma and surrounding areas.
Original Source: www.cbs19news.com
