Goma, DR Congo, is under M23 rebel control, leading to increased violence and severe humanitarian crises more than three months after their takeover. The city, once vibrant, now grapples with economic collapse, rampant crime, and mass displacements. With escalating conflict, the situation for its two million residents grows increasingly precarious as many face a bleak reality amidst ongoing violence.
GOMA, DR Congo, May 14 (Xinhua) — Goma, a city once teeming with life under the shadow of Mount Nyiragongo, now faces an uncertain stillness. The region has been under the control of the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group since January 27, 2025, which marked a significant shift in the long-standing conflict that has plagued eastern Congo for years.
The M23’s advance brought back painful memories for Goma’s residents, with its capture echoing the events of 2012 when the group briefly took over the city. The aftermath was catastrophic—intense fighting transformed neighborhoods into battlegrounds, leading to approximately 8,500 fatalities and nearly 5,600 injuries, as reported by the DRC government. Displacement camps faced rampant violence, with tragic accounts of casualties among vulnerable populations.
Despite the M23 proclaiming a “humanitarian ceasefire” on February 4, violence has persisted across North and South Kivu provinces. The rebel group expanded its reach to Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, establishing a front line that complicates the peace landscape even further. Experts suggest this ongoing conflict phase could become deeply rooted, possibly more than past struggles.
Corneille Nangaa, a significant figure in this political landscape and M23’s political wing leader, has declared intentions to liberate not just Goma but potentially the entire DRC, including the capital, Kinshasa. This ambition adds a layer of tension as Goma remains eerily quiet, stripped of its previous vibrancy, and yet life continues—albeit under duress.
Commercial life has taken a massive hit; once-busy streets now lay silent, and a banking collapse has made cash transactions nearly impossible, igniting a surge in nighttime crime. The absence of government has allowed M23 to impose checks and tax policies on the dwindling populace, exacerbating the situation.
The humanitarian crisis continues to unfold rapidly. The International Organization for Migration has indicated over 1.2 million people were newly displaced across the two Kivu provinces since the escalation of conflict at the start of the year. Those who fled to Goma earlier found themselves facing displacement yet again.
In February, M23’s 72-hour ultimatum forced major displacement camps like Bulengo and Lushagala to evacuate swiftly. Families departed carrying only essentials, often returning to find their communities in ruins, with fields charred and pathways blocked.
Sake, a key town located about 27 kilometers west of Goma, has witnessed relentless fighting since late 2023. The aftermath reflects a town devastated by conflict; street battles between M23 and Congolese forces have left significant destruction.
Even as the conflict rages, the dangers are still present in the form of unexploded ordnance in surrounding areas. Local resident Christian Kabuya recounted, “We’ve found live shells in over ten locations. Several people, including children, have died from accidental explosions.”
Ndosho Hospital in western Goma stands as the only facility accommodating injured patients, with support from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). However, it’s under immense pressure to meet the overwhelming need for medical care.
“It’s a uniquely complex situation here,” said veteran ICRC humanitarian worker Taoffic Mohamed Toure, highlighting the daunting task of operating in such a volatile and multifaceted conflict zone.
With efforts toward diplomacy faltering and ceasefire agreements unraveling, the people in eastern DRC live in a constant state of fear and uncertainty. The scars of conflict in Goma—and the echoes of its volcanic past—remain starkly visible, with little end in sight.
In summary, Goma and its surroundings are enveloped in ongoing turmoil following M23’s resurgence. The humanitarian crisis deepens as violence leads to widespread displacement and mounting casualties. With economic structures devastated and local governance in disarray, the conditions for civilians grow increasingly dire. Remaining aid efforts struggle to keep pace with the overwhelming needs of the population caught in this cycle of conflict. Amidst this chaos, the scars of war in Goma remain painfully apparent.
Original Source: english.news.cn
