The people of Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), remain fearful as gunfire and explosions continue to shake the city. Days after M23 rebels and the AFC coalition claimed control, battles persist as government forces attempt to retake the city.
Several people, including foreign peacekeepers, have died, and hundreds are injured. Hospitals are overwhelmed, while humanitarian agencies report mass atrocities, including rape and looting.
Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the United Nations Humanitarian Office (OCHA), described the situation as dire, with bodies on the streets and increasing human rights violations.
Many residents remain trapped indoors, struggling without electricity, water, or internet.
“People are scared because we have no electricity, water, or internet, so we spend the night in darkness,” said Camille, a resident of Himbi neighborhood.
Looting is rampant. “People thought the fighting had stopped and went out to buy essentials, but then robbers struck,” Camille added.
Meanwhile, Rams Kiriza, another resident, noted that M23 forces ordered civilians to evacuate. Despite the warning, clashes continue between rebels and government troops.
Medical facilities are under siege.
Doctors Without Borders (MSF) reported medical supplies stolen, and bullets pierced an operating room roof during a procedure at Kyeshero Hospital.
“Our teams can no longer access displaced people’s camps,” said Stephan Goetghebuer, MSF’s program director in North Kivu.
Regional Panic as Security Concerns Grow
The crisis is causing panic beyond Goma.
In Bukavu, residents rushed to withdraw money and stock up on food, fearing the violence could spread to their city.
David Cikuru, a civil society leader in Goma, reported looting by government soldiers and militia fighters in Bukavu. Gunfire was also heard on the city’s outskirts.
On Wednesday, AFC spokesman Victor Tesongo told CNN that rebel forces had secured the city despite resistance from government troops.
“The situation is calm. We have taken control,” he stated.
Rebels have opened a stadium to receive surrendering government soldiers, while hundreds of Congolese troops laid down their arms following M23’s 48-hour ultimatum.
A French intelligence source revealed that M23 forces captured Goma’s airport, preventing an ammunition shipment to Congolese forces.
Meanwhile, the Congolese government appointed a new military governor for North Kivu, declaring the province “under a state of siege.”
The United States and regional leaders have called for an immediate ceasefire.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed deep concern over the violence and urged all parties to respect Congo’s territorial integrity.
After speaking with Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Rubio emphasized the need for lasting peace.
Kagame described the discussion as “productive”, stressing the importance of ending the conflict permanently.
The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of supplying weapons and troops to M23 rebels. While Rwanda has not denied the claims, government spokesperson Yolande Makolo insisted that Kigali will defend its borders if necessary.
To address the crisis, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that East African leaders will convene an emergency summit to mediate peace efforts.
“The presidents of Rwanda and Congo must heed the call for peace,” Ruto urged.
With thousands of civilians at risk, the region remains on high alert, awaiting either further escalation or diplomatic intervention.
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