Kenyan President William Ruto announced a meeting between the presidents of Rwanda and Congo to address the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have seized Goma. The control of this major city has raised alarm over violence and humanitarian crises, as many residents have been displaced. Urgent calls for peace have been voiced as the situation remains unstable.
Kenyan President William Ruto announced on Monday that the leaders of Rwanda and Congo will convene on Wednesday to address the escalating situation in eastern Congo. The M23 rebel group recently declared its control over Goma, raising urgent concerns around stability and regional impact. President Ruto emphasized the necessity for a united response to the crisis, asserting that it is a crucial matter affecting the region’s safety.
In Goma, which is home to approximately two million residents, reports of violence and chaos have surfaced, particularly around the city’s airport. A journalist in the area described ongoing gunfire, indicating a worsening security situation. The Congolese government has long accused Rwanda of supporting M23; however, Rwanda has consistently denied these claims.
Following the unrest, the Congolese government, through spokesperson Patrick Muyaya, appealed to Goma’s residents for calm and cooperation in avoiding looting amidst heightened tensions. Meanwhile, M23 representatives asserted their control over the city after violent engagements with government forces, intensifying fear among citizens and displacing many who had already fled prior conflicts.
The situation has led to an influx of displaced individuals seeking refuge in camps like Mugunga, which is experiencing a surge of new arrivals. One affected woman recounted her escape from ongoing violence, highlighting dire conditions of food insecurity and lack of shelter.
Fierce clashes persist in surrounding areas such as Sake, with a focus on wiping out M23. Tragically, North Kivu Governor Major General Peter Cirimwami was reported deceased following injuries sustained in the conflict. This exacerbates the humanitarian crisis that has left over 5.5 million people displaced within Congo, particularly in North Kivu.
Internally displaced persons like Lomoo Biondo Manuel lament under the pressures of the conflict, calling for an immediate cessation of violence so that they may return home. In inundated camps, many are resorting to makeshift shelters, pleading for government action to restore peace. Moreover, reports have indicated Rwanda’s alleged involvement with M23, igniting scrutiny in regional dynamics, despite Rwandan officials refuting these allegations as unfounded.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, specifically in North Kivu province, has a complex history involving various rebel groups, notably the M23. This group has been accused of being backed by Rwanda, a claim that the Rwandan government has vehemently denied. The precarious situation in Goma emphasizes the urgent humanitarian crises, with millions displaced and battling dire conditions. The international community, including organizations like the United Nations, is increasingly attentive to the implications of renewed hostilities in the region.
The recent developments in eastern Congo, highlighted by the M23’s control of Goma, signify a critical juncture for the region. The upcoming meeting between the presidents of Rwanda and Congo underscores the necessity for cooperative dialogue to resolve the escalating crisis. As humanitarian needs intensify, the calls for peace from displaced individuals reflect the urgent need for a cessation of violence and restoration of stability in the area.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
