M23 rebels have advanced on Goma, compelling organizations like Mercy Corps to withdraw staff for safety. With the airport under rebel control and sporadic fighting, residents are in distress. The UN Security Council and other international leaders have called for an end to hostilities and ceasefire discussions.
The ongoing conflict between M23 rebels and government forces in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo has prompted humanitarian organizations to withdraw staff from the city of Goma due to safety concerns. Rose Tchwenko of Mercy Corps reported that as rebel advancements intensified, her organization took the precaution of moving non-essential personnel to safer locations. With escalating violence, including control of the airport by M23, even senior staff were relocated across the border into Rwanda.
Reports indicate that the situation in Goma has deteriorated, with sporadic fighting disrupting daily life. Residents, like Jack Mongi, describe a state of fear where gunfire can be heard, forcing people to seek refuge in their homes. The Congolese government has condemned these actions, calling it an act of war, amidst international calls for ceasefire from other nations.
The United Nations Security Council condemned the hostilities and emphasized the urgent need for an end to the violence, as highlighted by Bintou Keita, the head of the U.N. mission in Congo. Amidst blocked roads and closed airport facilities, the humanitarian crisis continues to unfold. Various leaders, including U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea, have expressed strong reactions and commitments to hold those responsible for the ongoing conflict accountable. In an effort to mitigate the crisis, Kenya’s President Ruto has proposed an extraordinary summit to discuss the conflict’s resolution.
The city of Goma, located in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo at the border with Rwanda, is facing significant unrest as M23 rebels have advanced towards it, raising alarms about a humanitarian crisis. Humanitarian groups like Mercy Corps have been reacting to these developments by withdrawing staff to ensure their safety amidst increasing violence and instability. The situation has implications not only for local residents but also for international stability in the region, attracting attention and responses from global leaders and organizations.
In summary, the humanitarian situation in Goma has reached critical levels as M23 rebels gain control, prompting aid organizations to evacuate staff for safety. The conflict has sparked a strong reaction from the international community, calling for immediate ceasefire and accountability for those involved in escalating violence. The continuous fighting poses severe challenges for the local population and humanitarian efforts in the region.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
