In the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have nearly surrounded Goma. The city, located on the shores of Lake Kivu and housing around three million residents including displaced people, faces imminent danger. Heavy fighting is concentrated in Sake, a town 25 kilometers from Goma and the rebels’ final obstacle.
Deadly Clashes Claim Lives of Peacekeepers
Clashes near Goma resulted in the deaths of nine South African peacekeepers, including two serving with the UN mission MONUSCO. South Africa’s military confirmed the fatalities, while the UN initially reported nine injured peacekeepers. The UN Security Council has scheduled an emergency meeting to address the worsening situation.
The European Union, African Union, and the United Nations have strongly condemned the violence. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas accused Rwanda of violating international law by supporting the M23 offensive. Congo’s government and UN investigators claim Rwanda is arming the rebels, a charge Rwanda denies.
Resource-Rich Region Fuels Conflict
Eastern Congo holds vast mineral wealth, including coltan, essential for manufacturing electronics and electric vehicle batteries. The M23 rebels have taken control of coltan mining in territories they occupy, adding to the region’s instability. While initially active in North Kivu, the group has expanded operations into South Kivu, where UN peacekeepers withdrew last year.
Civilians Face Severe Hardship
In recent days, M23 forces captured the strategic town of Minova and briefly controlled Sake before Congolese forces reclaimed it. From elevated positions around Goma, rebels are launching artillery attacks, putting civilians at risk. UN peacekeepers are patrolling alongside Congolese troops to shield civilians caught in the crossfire.
The UN estimates over 400,000 people have fled the conflict in just three weeks. Many displaced individuals lack essential resources, such as food, water, and medical aid. Fearing an imminent attack on Goma, many have crossed into neighboring Rwanda to escape the violence.
The deepening crisis calls for urgent global attention to prevent further suffering and restore peace in the region.
