Kenyan President William Ruto announced a meeting between the presidents of Rwanda and Congo amidst escalating conflict in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have reportedly captured Goma. The takeover has led to fears of violence and mass displacements, with the humanitarian situation worsening. The Congolese government continues to accuse Rwanda of supporting M23, while calls for peace grow stronger among displaced individuals.
On Monday, Kenyan President William Ruto announced that the presidents of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have agreed to convene a meeting on Wednesday. This discussion will focus on the escalating situation in eastern Congo, particularly following reports that M23 rebels have seized control of Goma, a city crucial to the Congo-Rwanda border. Ruto emphasized the importance of addressing this matter collectively, stating, “The situation in eastern DRC now demands our collective focus.”
The takeover of Goma, which has a population of approximately 2 million, has raised alarms over potential violence and mass displacements. A journalist located in Goma reported ongoing fighting near the airport, suggesting an escalation in conflict. Amidst the chaos, the journalist described hearing gunfire and was compelled to seek shelter during the call to VOA.
Congo has frequently accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, an allegation that Rwanda has consistently refuted. On Monday, the Congolese government asserted that Rwandan troops are present in Goma, although there has been no official response from Kigali. Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya stated, “The Congolese government continues to work to avoid carnage and loss of human life,” urging the residents of Goma to remain indoors and avoid looting.
M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka confirmed that the rebels took control of Goma over the weekend, following severe clashes with Congolese government forces. The ongoing violence has caused panic among residents and has displaced many individuals who had previously fled from surrounding areas. The Mugunga camp, which houses numerous displaced persons, is experiencing a surge in new arrivals seeking refuge.
One woman, who preferred anonymity for security reasons, shared her harrowing experience: “We fled Sake last year because of fighting, and now we are running again. We have no food, no shelter, and no idea where we’ll end up. This is no life.” As M23 fights for complete dominion over Goma, conflict continues around the town of Sake in North Kivu province.
Recent reports indicated that intense fighting persists between M23 and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). On Friday, General Sylvain Ekenge, the military spokesperson, announced that North Kivu Governor Major General Peter Cirimwami had succumbed to injuries sustained during the clash after being evacuated to Kinshasa.
The ongoing conflict has severely worsened the humanitarian situation in the region. According to the United Nations, over 5.5 million individuals are displaced within Congo, particularly in North Kivu. Internally displaced person Lomoo Biondo Manuel expressed the desire for peace, stating, “We are facing a lot of hardships. We want to go back to our original homes. We want peace.”
Residents in Mugunga camp have been forced to find shelter in makeshift locations, including schools and abandoned buildings, while some have resorted to sleeping in open fields. In desperation, one displaced woman implored, “We call on the government to end this war so we can return to our homes.”
The resurgence of M23 has prompted renewed scrutiny of regional dynamics, with a recent United Nations report alleging Rwanda’s involvement in the group’s operations, a charge that Rwandan officials have vehemently denied.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has its roots in a complex history of ethnic tensions, political instability, and regional power dynamics. The M23 rebel group has emerged as a significant actor in the armed conflict, igniting long-standing accusations against Rwanda for supporting these rebels. The humanitarian implications are dire, with millions displaced and the region’s stability at significant risk.
The situation in eastern Congo remains precarious as rebel forces have taken control of Goma, prompting emergency meetings among regional leaders. The humanitarian crisis is deepening due to displacement and violence, with calls for peace and effective intervention growing louder. As tensions mount, the involvement of regional actors and the international community’s response will be critical to restoring stability in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
