Thousands are fleeing Goma as M23 rebels approach, with accusations against Rwanda supporting the rebels. The UN calls for cessation of hostilities, while Kenya mediates in the crisis. Reports indicate significant displacement and humanitarian needs in the region, stressing the urgent need for a peaceful resolution.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is witnessing a significant humanitarian crisis as tens of thousands of individuals flee from towns in the eastern region due to advancing M23 rebel forces. Reports indicate that explosions and gunfire were heard in Goma, a city with a population exceeding one million, further escalating anxieties among residents. A spokesman from the M23 group has projected that they will take control of Goma by 03:00 local time.
This situation escalated after the DRC’s foreign minister accused neighboring Rwanda of declaring war by allegedly sending troops to support the M23 rebels. Rwanda, however, countered by alleging that the DRC is endorsing militias seeking governmental change in Kigali. In response to the conflict, Kenya has initiated calls for a ceasefire and is facilitating discussions, including an emergency summit between the presidents of the DRC and Rwanda.
On the ground, M23 rebels are urging Congolese soldiers in Goma to surrender peacefully to prevent further violence. The group has expanded its territory in eastern DRC since 2021, and recent offensives have seen rapid advances toward Goma amid severe fighting. According to UN reports, displacements have exceeded 400,000 individuals across North and South Kivu since January 2025.
Displaced individuals, such as Alice Feza, have expressed their desperation as they continue to flee from Kiwanja, Rutshuru, Kibumba, and now Goma. Ms. Feza lamented, “People are fleeing everywhere, and we do not know where to go anymore.” The United Nations has highlighted that key routes around Goma are blocked, and the city’s airport is no longer operational for evacuation and humanitarian activities.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has publicly called for Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DRC territory and for the M23 group to halt its offensive toward Goma. His statement emphasizes the need for Rwanda to end support for the M23. Calls for an end to the violence have also come from the UK and France. Both countries have urged that respect for peacekeepers and the safety of civilians is paramount in this context.
Furthermore, both the DRC and the UN have accused the M23 group of being backed by Rwanda, a claim Rwanda’s authorities have not denied. Instead, Rwanda’s UN representative highlighted a perspective that placed emphasis on the actions of the Congolese army rather than those of the rebels. In light of the escalating tensions, the UN has begun withdrawing non-essential personnel from Goma while continuing essential operations in the country.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has roots in historical tensions between various militant groups, regional powers, and complex local dynamics. The M23 rebels have been actively fighting since their resurgence in 2021, seeking to exert control over mineral-rich territories. The situation intensified with accusations against Rwanda, raising concerns about international intervention and regional stability. Humanitarian needs are acute as a result of mass displacements and heightened violence in the region.
In summary, the deteriorating security situation in eastern DRC, exacerbated by M23 rebel advances, has led to tens of thousands of people fleeing Goma. The conflict is deeply intertwined with regional dynamics involving Rwanda, with both nations exchanging accusations of hostile actions. The international community, including the UN, is calling for urgent measures to address the crisis and prioritize humanitarian aid for the displaced. Continued regional cooperation will be crucial in seeking a resolution to this escalating conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
