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The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has faced escalating tensions as the M23 rebel group and Rwandan-backed forces advance toward the city of Goma, which is pivotal to regional security and humanitarian aid. Thousands of people, including civilians and peacekeepers, have fled the fighting that also resulted in at least 13 killed.
The M23 group, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis who seceded from the DRC army over a decade ago, has made significant territorial gains near Goma, the provincial capital with around 2 million people. Despite UN peacekeepers’ support for Congolese forces, the rebels have pushed into Munagi, an area 9 kilometers from Goma, causing widespread panic and flight.
The United Nations special representative, Bintou Keita, reported that M23 fighters are advancing in a context of constant population movement, with roads blocked and the airport rendered unusable for evacuation. She emphasized the UN’s temporary relocation of non-essential personnel due to the crisis.
Rwanda’s government initially denied backing the rebels but later acknowledged having troops and missile systems in eastern Congo to protect its security. The DRC has severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda, pulling out all staff after tensions escalated.
Civilians fleeing into Goma report hearing gunfire and facing fear for their lives, including children being left behind. Hundreds of people attempted to cross into Rwanda via the “Great Barrier” border on Sunday, with migration officers checking documents carefully.
The situation in Goma is dire, with hundreds needing urgent aid as the city faces potential explosion from hostile forces. The UN has been supporting Congolese forces but struggles to contain M23’s advances despite regional involvement including Southern African troops and UN peacekeepers.
Rwanda’s government denies direct support for the rebels, but the growing tension highlights the delicate balance of power in Central Africa, where multiple conflicts teeter on the brink of escalation. The humanitarian crisis in the east underscores the urgent need for international intervention to stabilize the region.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/01/26/africa/congo-severs-ties-rwanda-rebels-goma-intl/index.html