Approximately 3,000 people have died in Goma, DR Congo, following a rebel takeover. The UN reported ongoing concerns over increased fatalities and humanitarian crises as clashes continue between M23 rebels and the Congolese army. Ethnic tensions and competition for resources fuel decades of violence, exacerbated by external influences, particularly from Rwanda.
The United Nations reported nearly 3,000 fatalities in Goma, DR Congo, after rebels seized control of the city amid intense fighting with the Congolese army. Vivian van de Perre, the UN mission’s deputy head, noted that approximately 2,000 bodies were collected from Goma’s streets, with another 900 in local morgues. The death toll is expected to rise due to numerous uncollected bodies in some areas.
The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), including the M23 armed group, declared a ceasefire in response to the humanitarian crisis but was met with skepticism from the Congolese government, which labeled the announcement as deceitful. Despite the ceasefire, fighting reportedly continues in South Kivu province, indicating ongoing unrest.
Decades of violence in Congo stem from ethnic tensions and disputes over land and resource access, leading to one of the most severe humanitarian crises globally. The US, Congo, and UN experts accuse Rwanda of supporting M23, while Rwanda maintains it has troops present for security purposes.
M23 has intensified its rebellion since 2022, claiming to represent minority interests and control vast mineral-rich territories along the border with Rwanda and Uganda, crucial for rare minerals like coltan. Advances in their territorial gains were reported as they captured towns near Bukavu, raising concerns about further escalation.
Tensions are increasing in Bukavu as M23 approaches the city. The UN is particularly worried about losing Kavumu airport, vital for civilian and humanitarian operations. The AFC has previously stated it does not intend to seize Bukavu or other unspecified areas where displaced Goma residents have sought refuge.
M23’s leader expressed intentions to capture more territories, including the national capital Kinshasa, located 930 miles from Goma. The situation in Goma remains volatile, with reports indicating that the airport and all exit points are under rebel control, significantly impacting civilian movement and humanitarian conditions.
Nearly 2,000 displaced civilians are sheltered in UN peacekeeping bases. The UN highlighted that the ongoing violence has exacerbated humanitarian conditions, causing significant suffering among the local population and displacing many.
The Democratic Republic of Congo, with a population exceeding 100 million, has a long history of conflict, often driven by ethnic differences and competition for land and mineral resources. The eastern region, particularly North Kivu where Goma is located, is rich in valuable minerals but has experienced continuous violence and instability. The recent rebellion led by M23, with allegations of Rwandan support, has intensified this situation, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis in the area.
The situation in Goma highlights the devastating consequences of ongoing conflict in eastern DR Congo, with significant civilian casualties and displacement due to relentless fighting between rebel groups and government forces. The collapse of local governance and humanitarian infrastructures further complicates recovery efforts. As the conflict escalates, the UN emphasizes the urgent need for international attention and intervention to alleviate the growing humanitarian disaster.
Original Source: keyt.com
