Goma Under Siege: The Humanitarian Crisis Amid Rebel Advance
Goma is under siege by M23 rebels, who recently declared its capture. The conflict in eastern Congo, exacerbated by Rwandan involvement, has displaced many people seeking refuge. Hospitals are overwhelmed and residents express despair over their uncertain future as violence escalates in the region.
In the face of an advancing rebel threat, the city of Goma, backed by the Congolese military, finds itself under siege. M23 rebels, receiving support from neighboring Rwanda, recently announced the capture of Goma, escalating a decades-long conflict in eastern Congo. Displaced individuals, already fleeing violence, now face further dangers as they attempt to find safety within the city.
As chaos unfolds, terrified residents share disturbing footage of the city overtaken by rebels, which M23 refers to as a “liberation.” Many Congolese soldiers abandoned their posts amid gunfire, while some chose to confront the approaching rebels. The situation is dire; hospitals are overwhelmed as patient numbers surge due to the escalating conflict.
One resident navigating the turmoil, Asifiwe Iragi Rugesha, strives to guide her six children amidst the crowd of displaced individuals, escaping recent bombings in Kibati. With M23 closing in, the uncertainty of safety looms over them. “There is nothing else to do,” Ms. Rugesha expressed, conveying her fears of tragic consequences should the rebels invade Goma.
Closure of the airport on Sunday added another layer of despair, causing increased frustration toward MONUSCO, the United Nations peacekeeping force. Many residents, such as Patrick Amani, feel let down, stating, “They have betrayed the Congolese people.” Others, like Sifa Kigugo, voice their trepidations, holding their newborns and reflecting on their lack of safe options.
In Goma, the atmosphere darkens as gunshots are heard, and essential services like power and water are suspended. Those wounded by conflict lie vulnerable in hospital beds, grappling with the uncertainty of their futures as the rebels advance. Displaced families from Saké face immense difficulties as they seek refuge and assistance in hospitals amid the ongoing violence.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo is characterized by a struggle between Rwandan-backed M23 rebels and Congolese armed forces, a situation that has persisted for several decades. This cycle of violence has led to profound humanitarian crises, with countless individuals being driven from their homes and struggling to find safety. The city of Goma has emerged as both a refuge and a battleground, illustrating the complex nature of the conflict and its human toll.
The situation in Goma highlights the dire consequences of prolonged conflict in eastern Congo, marked by displacement, insufficient humanitarian assistance, and fear among the local population. Residents express their desperation and frustration towards international peacekeeping forces while struggling to find safety in their own city. The urgency of the ongoing crisis calls for a comprehensive response to safeguard the lives and dignity of affected individuals.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
