Kenyan President William Ruto announced a meeting between the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC to address the crisis in Eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have reportedly taken control of Goma. The ongoing fighting has led to mass panic and displacement among the city’s residents, with significant humanitarian needs arising in the region amid accusations of Rwandan involvement.
On Monday, Kenyan President William Ruto announced a meeting between the Presidents of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to address the escalating situation in Eastern Congo, where M23 rebels claim control over Goma. President Ruto emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “We are all in agreement that now more than ever it is an existential issue.”
The takeover of Goma, a city of approximately 2 million residents, has raised concerns about potential violence and mass displacement. Reports indicate that fighting has intensified around the city’s airport, causing alarm among the inhabitants. A journalist in the area during the unrest described gunfire and the need for immediate shelter, underscoring the chaos.
The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of supporting M23, allegations that Rwanda has consistently denied. Following the accusations, the Congolese government claimed the presence of Rwandan troops in Goma, although there has been no response from Kigali officials. The spokesperson for the Congolese government urged residents to stay indoors to avoid further dangers.
M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka confirmed the group’s recent control over Goma after significant clashes with Congolese armed forces. The situation has led to widespread panic, further complicating the humanitarian crisis as many people were already displaced due to earlier conflicts.
One resident shared her harrowing experience of fleeing ongoing violence: “We fled Sake last year because of fighting, and now we are running again. We have no food, no shelter, and no idea where we’ll end up. This is no life.”
While battles rage between M23 and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), additional reports detailed the death of North Kivu Governor Major General Peter Cirimwami. His military spokesperson announced that he succumbed to injuries following evacuation efforts.
The ongoing conflict has further deepened the humanitarian crisis in the region, with over 5.5 million people displaced across Congo, especially in North Kivu. Displaced individuals like Lomoo Biondo Manuel express a desire for peace and a return to their homes, stating, “We want to go back to our original homes. We want peace.”
At the Mugunga camp for internally displaced persons, conditions have deteriorated, with many seeking refuge in various makeshift shelters as they await intervention. One displaced woman implored government action, saying, “We call on the government to end this war so we can return to our homes.”
The resurgence of M23 has prompted scrutiny of regional dynamics. A UN report suggested Rwanda’s involvement in the group’s activities, claims which Rwandan officials firmly reject as unfounded. This situation reflects the complex interplay of local and regional factors contributing to ongoing instability in the region.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has long been embroiled in conflict, with Eastern Congo being a particular hotspot for violence due to the activities of various rebel groups, including M23. Tensions remain high between the DRC and its neighbor, Rwanda, with historical grievances fueling accusations of external interference. The humanitarian situation in the region has reached alarming levels, exacerbated by continued fighting and displacement of populations seeking safety.
The meeting between the presidents of Rwanda and the DRC represents a critical effort to address the escalating violence in Goma, where the M23 rebels have claimed control. The humanitarian crisis is deepening as millions are displaced, with urgent calls for peace and stability in the region. Given the complex regional interrelations, the upcoming discussions could play a vital role in ensuring the safety and resilience of affected communities.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
