The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is once again at the center of conflict as the M23 rebel group has rapidly advanced, threatening the city of Goma, home to over one million inhabitants. The city, strategically located on the border with Rwanda, serves as both a significant trade hub and gateway to the mineral-rich eastern regions of the country.
Following the M23’s declaration of control over Goma on January 27, 2025, reports of increasing violence and chaos have surfaced. The group claims to be acting out of necessity to protect the rights of ethnic Tutsis, citing broken promises from previous peace agreements. The M23, which is led by Tutsis and took its name from a peace accord signed on March 23, 2009, has previously been accused of human rights violations and war crimes during its prior control of the city.
According to spokespersons from the UN World Food Programme, "roads are blocked, ports are closed and those crossing Lake Kivu risk their lives in makeshift boats." The local populace has responded to the ever-deterioration of their living conditions with heightened fear and anxiety, driven by reports of internet outages, power failures, and rampant looting.
Br. Adophe Mulengezi, who remains in contact with families struggling under these circumstances, shared his distress with Vatican News, stating, "I remain in constant prayer for their safety." He articulated the agony and intensity of the situation, which he said left many residents vulnerable and deprived of basic services such as water and medical care.
Recent military activity has also seen the surrender of over 1,200 Congolese soldiers to the M23. Bishop William Gumbi has been vocal about the humanitarian crisis, condemning attacks on local health facilities, including the bombing of the neonatal unit at Charity Matano General Hospital. The situation has compelled approximately 300,000 people to flee their homes and seek refuge within camps around Goma.
Beyond the immediate chaos within Goma, the conflict's roots trace back to historical tensions following the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The aftermath of this brutal episode saw around one million Hutus fleeing genocide reprisals, leading to fractious relationships among various ethnic groups, particularly between Tutsis and Hutus within the region. This backdrop complicates the current military and humanitarian crises, with accusations directed at Rwanda for allegedly supporting the M23 rebels, something the Rwandan government has consistently denied.
UN reports have indicated Rwanda’s military involvement, noting the presence of Rwandan troops combatting alongside M23 forces. The DRC’s government has reiterated the importance of regional cooperation to address the lasting threat posed by groups like the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which exists due to historical grievances stemming from the genocide.
The precarious situation has left civilians critically vulnerable as humanitarian access becomes more restricted, with OCHA identifying health facilities and aid warehouses as being directly impacted by the conflict. Through all of this turmoil, Br. Adophe decried the lack of dignity for the Congolese people, stating emphatically, "We have to let Goma, D.R. Congo breathe and live like any other nation because we have right to live." His statements illuminate the pressing need for international intervention and humanitarian aid as ordinary citizens face catastrophic conditions.
The issue of the region's mineral wealth complicates matters even more. The country is rich in resources such as coltan and gold, which are key to many global technologies, making it attractive for exploitation among competing entities. Recent reports have pointed to the M23’s seizure of lucrative mining areas, with claims surfacing around the transportation of Congolese minerals to Rwanda, reigniting allegations of resource looting amid the strife.
The international community faces mounting pressure to act, particularly as instability reigns both economically and militarily across eastern DRC. The UN peacekeeping mission, Monusco, has been criticized for its perceived failures, and the postponement of its exit—requested by President Félix Tshisekedi—reflects the challenges amid heightened violence. With regional troops and peacekeeping efforts unable to stave off the conflict, the urgency for dialogue and peace initiatives grows.
What is clear is the necessity for cohesive efforts to tackle the multi-faceted problems facing Goma and its surroundings. The resilience of the Congolese people hinges on responsive governance, international solidarity, and the sincere commitment of global leaders to end the violence plaguing their homes. Without immediate and effective action, hopes for lasting resolution and recovery remain dim.