Gunfire in Goma highlights a serious humanitarian crisis amid clashes between Congolese soldiers and Rwandan-backed M23 rebels. The U.N. warns hospitals are overwhelmed, and food aid has been paused. Crisis talks are planned with key leaders, while the U.N. calls for an end to hostilities. The humanitarian situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate, with millions displaced.
Gunfire erupted in Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, on Tuesday, amidst alarming humanitarian concerns as clashes occurred between Congolese forces and Rwandan-backed rebels. Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the U.N. humanitarian office, reported overwhelmed hospitals in Goma. In response to the violence, the World Food Program temporarily suspended food assistance in the region, further complicating existing humanitarian crises.
Crisis discussions are set for Wednesday, with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in attendance, according to Kenyan President William Ruto, who emphasized that a military solution is not viable. The U.S. State Department condemned the assault on Goma, affirming its respect for the DRC’s sovereignty.
Bruno Lemarquis, U.N. resident coordinator in the DRC, stated that the conflict continues despite the rebels claiming control. He noted that fighting persists across various neighborhoods in Goma, disrupting essential services like water, electricity, and communications. Humanitarian warehouses have reportedly been looted, exacerbating the dire situation.
The M23 rebels intensified their offensive in early January, violating a ceasefire with the support of Rwandan forces. The United Nations has recorded significant territorial advancements by the rebels and is urging an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of both M23 and Rwandan troops. They call for the resumption of mediation efforts led by Angola.
Lemarquis stressed the need for temporary humanitarian pauses and safe corridors to facilitate aid and evacuate civilians trapped in conflict zones. The United Nations allocated $17 million from its emergency fund to address urgent humanitarian needs, while evacuations of nonessential U.N. staff are underway to ensure their safety.
The U.N. peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, has fortified its presence in Goma with additional forces in response to the escalating conflict. U.N. peacekeeping chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix remarked on the priority of ensuring the safety of civilians and personnel amidst the ongoing violence, which has already resulted in the deaths of three peacekeepers.
The eastern Democratic Republic of Congo faces one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with nearly 6.5 million individuals displaced due to conflicts over valuable mineral resources. The situation continues to evolve dangerously, requiring urgent and coordinated international efforts to alleviate the humanitarian plight.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by conflict for decades, with various armed groups vying for control over its rich mineral resources. The M23 rebel group, which has support from neighboring Rwanda, has contributed to escalating violence in the eastern region, particularly in Goma. The humanitarian situation in the DRC is critical, as ongoing conflicts have led to large-scale displacement and severe disruptions to basic services, necessitating urgent international assistance and intervention.
The situation in Goma remains precarious, with ongoing violence between Congolese forces and M23 rebels causing significant humanitarian concerns. International efforts are crucial to facilitate peace negotiations and provide aid to affected individuals. Without immediate action, the humanitarian crisis is likely to worsen, impacting millions facing displacement and lack of essential services.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
