Following the recent seizure of Goma by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, families of Congolese soldiers have faced danger and displacement. Many mothers and children are left homeless in temporary shelters with minimal resources. Reports of forced conscription persist, compounding their hardship amidst an escalating conflict that has already claimed thousands of lives.
Rwanda-backed rebels, known as M23, have overtaken the city of Goma in eastern Congo, targeting families of Congolese soldiers as they flee. Reports indicate that the rebels have forcibly removed military families from camps, leaving many without shelter and basic necessities. M23’s actions signal an escalation in their longstanding conflict with the Congolese government, having already captured Goma and larger cities, resulting in significant civilian displacement and casualties.
Many military families find shelter in schools, coping with dire conditions. The loss of homes and loved ones adds to their struggles; many children are left unprotected. Francine Kayenga, a pregnant mother, expressed her emotional turmoil after losing her husband to the conflict, highlighting the crisis faced by these families.
Unlike their previous incursion in 2012, M23 appears determined to maintain control this time and seeks to challenge the government more aggressively, backed by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops. Reports also suggest illegal conscription is occurring, especially targeting sons of soldiers. Survivors, like Albertine Malongi, shared accounts of their fear amidst forced recruitment, as the rebels attempt to bolster their ranks.
The UN human rights office has confirmed alarming reports of forced and child recruitment alongside egregious human rights violations, calling for the protection of civilians. While M23 continues to expand its territory, many families question their future amidst fears of where to resettle.
The conditions in temporary shelters are alarming, with families struggling for food and safety. Lucie Mapasa recounted a terrifying encounter with M23 rebels in search of soldiers. Education is currently not a priority for these families, overshadowed by immediate survival concerns.
Without proper food supplies, many have resorted to selling their possessions for basic needs, raising fears of starvation. The resulting humanitarian crisis underscores the urgent need for peace in a region plagued by conflict and instability.
The article details the plight of Congolese military families caught in the violence resulting from M23’s takeover of Goma. With tensions escalating and humanitarian conditions deteriorating, these families face uncertainty, with reports of forced recruitment and ongoing threats from rebels. International calls for respect for human rights emphasize the urgent need for intervention and support in restoring safety and stability in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
