Seventeen people have died, and nearly 370 are injured in Goma, DRC, as clashes between the Congolese military and M23 forces supported by Rwanda continue. Residents report fear and despair amid ongoing violence. The DRC government’s efforts to maintain order are challenged by a humanitarian crisis, with over 400,000 displaced this year. Regional leaders are set to meet to address the escalating situation.
Fighting in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Goma has resulted in 17 fatalities and nearly 370 injuries, as per hospital reports from January 27, 2025. The Congolese military is engaged in combat with M23 forces, reportedly supported by the Rwandan army. Artillery and gunfire have been rampant throughout the city, prompting severe distress among residents who fear for their safety.
Despite conflicting reports about the extent of the Congolese military’s control in Goma, individuals like resident Lucie expressed their fears, stating, “We can hear the shooting outside our homes, we cannot leave.” This resurgence of violence marks the continuation of a decades-long conflict in North Kivu province, which has seen the M23 armed group reemerge in late 2021, capturing large areas of territory.
Healthcare facilities within Goma are overwhelmed, treating hundreds of individuals injured during the clashes, according to Myriam Favier of the International Committee of the Red Cross. “Our surgical teams are now working around the clock to cope with the massive influx of wounded,” said Favier, noting that most casualties are civilians. Moreover, the ongoing fighting has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, displacing over 400,000 people so far this year.
The DRC government, through spokesman Patrick Muyaya, assured that efforts to avert further loss of life and violence in Goma are ongoing. The M23 has declared that the night marked an occasion for their forces while demanding the surrender of Congolese military weapons. Amid this escalation, regional leaders, including the Kenyan President William Ruto, are set to convene a crisis summit on January 29, 2025, to address the situation.
Simultaneously, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated support for the DRC’s sovereignty and emphasized the necessity for renewed dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda. The relationship between the two nations has been tense for years, especially regarding accusations of Rwanda seeking control over mineral resources within the DRC.
Recent violence led to a mass jailbreak from a prison in Goma, resulting in additional casualties as the situation deteriorated. Foreign peacekeepers have suffered losses as conflict continues, and diplomatic relations between the DRC and Rwanda remain strained. Meanwhile, Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner characterized the Rwandan troops’ presence as “a declaration of war” and called for international sanctions against Rwanda.
The U.N. Security Council convened to address the pressing conflict but did not directly name Rwanda when discussing the need to withdraw outside forces. Rwanda continues to contest the allegations while maintaining that its military presence is necessary for defense against escalating violence along the border. A UN report revealed ongoing concerns regarding Rwanda’s economic interests linked to the DRC’s mineral resources, notably gold.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, particularly in Goma, is characterized by decades of violence stemming from various internal and external factors. The reemergence of the M23 armed group and accusations against Rwanda have intensified hostilities. The region is rich in minerals, leading to a protracted struggle for control and resources. The humanitarian consequences of this conflict are profound, with massive displacements of civilians and severe health crises affecting many.
The recent clashes in Goma underscore the fragility of peace in eastern DRC, exacerbated by involvement from Rwandan forces and the resurgence of the M23 group. With significant casualties and injuries reported, the situation demands urgent international attention. As local and regional leaders convene to discuss the crisis, the need for a sustainable resolution to the ongoing violence and humanitarian issues remains imperative.
Original Source: www.thehindu.com
