As the M23 fighters advance toward Goma, fears grow among civilians, leading to mass displacements from captured areas like Minova. Despite seeking refuge in camps, displaced individuals face daunting humanitarian conditions, with aid agencies struggling to provide support due to safety concerns. The armed conflict continues to escalate, reflecting a long-standing cycle of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
In Goma, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, a continuous stream of displaced individuals is fleeing the advancing M23 fighters. These fighters, supported by Rwanda, have captured significant territory, including the port town of Minova, exacerbating the existing conflict that has persisted for over 30 years. The situation has worsened since 2021, prompting numerous displacements and an increase in violence, leaving many in an uncertain existence.
Displaced resident Anuarite Nabintu shared, “Everywhere we go, we find ourselves in an uncertain situation,” highlighting the pervasive fear among those escaping the conflict. The M23 has practically surrounded Goma as it continues its offensive, with the Congolese army now only separated from them by a narrow body of water. In response, the Congolese army has restricted small boat movements on the lake to prevent enemy infiltration and has deployed heavy artillery for defensive purposes.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced decades of conflict, primarily driven by ethnic tensions and struggles for control over valuable resources. The M23, predominantly an ethnic Tutsi group, has re-emerged since 2021, intensifying its military operations against the Congolese army. This resurgence has led to increased displacement of civilians who are fleeing battle zones in search of safety, further complicating an already challenging humanitarian situation in the region.
The ongoing conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, particularly around Goma, remains dire as the M23 fighters continue their advances, displacing thousands. As tensions rise, humanitarian conditions deteriorate, leaving the affected populations in precarious circumstances. The Congolese army’s responses to the M23 threat reveal the urgent need for effective strategies to protect civilians and stabilize the region.
Original Source: www.france24.com
