Humanitarian organizations are relocating staff from Goma, DRC, as M23 rebels gain control amid escalating violence. The situation is dire, with fighting reported and key access routes closed. U.N. officials have called for a ceasefire as local residents endure the conflict’s consequences. The international community seeks to mediate and stabilize the region through peace talks.
In response to escalating conflict in Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo, humanitarian organizations are withdrawing personnel due to safety concerns. The situation has been exacerbated following reports that M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have taken control of significant areas including Goma, a major city with a population of about 2 million. Rose Tchwenko from Mercy Corps indicated that the organization had closely monitored the developments and moved non-essential staff out as conditions deteriorated.
Following the fall of key supply routes last week, the situation rapidly worsened, leading to the evacuation of even senior team members to Gisenyi, Rwanda. Tchwenko highlighted the dire state of affairs, noting that the airport in Goma is now closed, further compounding the humanitarian crisis and disrupting aid operations. Concurrent reports described sporadic fighting ongoing throughout Goma city.
Recent clashes have resulted in multiple casualties among U.N. peacekeepers, raising alarms among global representatives. The U.N. Security Council is calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. Bintou Keita, head of the U.N. mission in Congo, described how the M23 rebels have effectively rendered evacuation and humanitarian efforts impossible.
Local residents, such as Jack Mongi, have reported direct impacts of the fighting, citing gunfire and the need for shelter. The DRC’s foreign minister labeled the conflict a “frontal assault, a declaration of war” against the nation. U.S. officials have condemned these actions, advocating for accountability against those perpetuating violence.
Kenyan President William Ruto has initiated dialogues between the involved parties and plans to convene an East African Community summit to address the crisis. The situation remains fluid, with international pressure mounting for resolution and peace talks to begin promptly.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo has a long history of conflict, particularly in its eastern regions where various armed groups, including the M23 rebels, operate. These groups often gain support from neighboring countries such as Rwanda, complicating the geopolitical landscape of the region. Humanitarian organizations like Mercy Corps play vital roles in providing aid; however, their operations are threatened by security concerns when conflicts intensify, as seen currently in Goma. The international community, represented by the U.N., has been involved in attempts to mediate and establish peace, which continues to be a challenge amid ongoing violence.
As the conflict in Goma escalates, the withdrawal of humanitarian personnel illustrates the severe implications for aid efforts and civilian safety. The M23’s advances have prompted international condemnation and calls for immediate ceasefire and dialogue between involved parties. The situation highlights the urgent need for a coordinated response from the global community to address the mounting humanitarian crisis and restore peace in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
