Significant unrest in the Democratic Republic of Congo has led to tens of thousands fleeing Goma as M23 rebels advance. Allegations of Rwandan support for the rebels have escalated tensions, prompting calls for regional leaders to negotiate peace. The situation has resulted in over 400,000 displaced individuals and has drawn international attention to the deteriorating humanitarian conditions.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is witnessing a mass exodus as rebel forces advance towards Goma, leading to severe humanitarian consequences for the region’s inhabitants. Explosions and gunfire were reported in Goma, home to over a million residents. The M23 rebel group has stated their intention to capture the city soon. In response, the DRC’s foreign minister accused Rwanda of waging war by supporting the M23 rebels, an allegation Rwanda denies while accusing the DRC of backing insurgents against their regime.
In light of escalating tensions, Kenya has appealed for a ceasefire and announced an upcoming regional summit involving the DRC and Rwandan presidents. Kenyan President William Ruto emphasized the need for regional leaders to pursue a peaceful resolution. On the ground, the M23 rebels have urged Congolese troops to surrender to avert further bloodshed, as the group continues to consolidate control over eastern DRC, where conflict has surged in recent weeks.
Since the beginning of 2025, more than 400,000 individuals have been displaced from North and South Kivu provinces, highlighting the dire humanitarian crisis. Displaced individuals, such as Alice Feza, express despair over their uncertain future, having fled multiple towns without viable refuge. The ongoing conflicts have rendered significant transportation routes and Goma’s airport non-functional, complicating humanitarian efforts.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces and a halt to the M23’s advances. His statement urged Rwanda to cease its support of the rebel group and for the M23 to end hostile actions and vacate occupied territories. This escalation follows the death of 13 peacekeepers in clashes with the M23 rebels.
The UK and France have condemned the violence against UN peacekeepers, reinforcing Guterres’ demand for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops. Both the DRC government and the UN have characterized the M23 group as being supported by Rwanda, emphasizing the complexity of the conflict. Meanwhile, Rwanda’s UN representative expressed disappointment over international condemnation directed solely at the M23, indicating a need to address the faults of the Congolese army as well.
The deteriorating security situation in the DRC’s eastern region, especially around Goma, has been exacerbated by M23 rebel activities and external influences, particularly from Rwanda. The M23 group, which has gained significant territory since 2021, is accused by the DRC and the UN of receiving support from Rwanda, which remains contentious. The underlying tensions between these nations have historical roots, with accusations of militia backing and support for insurgency fueling regional strife.
The escalating conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo poses severe risks for its citizens. Thousands are fleeing Goma as the M23 rebels approach, amid international calls for peace and resolution. The involvement of regional actors, particularly Rwanda and Kenya, highlights the complex dynamics at play, while the UN emphasizes the urgent need for humanitarian access and support. The situation remains critical as calls for a ceasefire and negotiation efforts intensify.
Original Source: www.bbc.co.uk
