Thousands of residents were forced to flee eastern Goma on Thursday amid escalating violence between the Congolese military and M23 rebels. The intensifying conflict, particularly in the western Goma area of Sake, has sparked widespread panic, according to eyewitnesses and videos shared on social media.
As the fighting between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the M23 rebel group grows fiercer, civilians have been seeking refuge in safer parts of the city. In response, local authorities have closed schools and emptied several refugee camps to accommodate the sudden influx of displaced people.
The mass exodus comes as M23 rebels made significant territorial gains, including the capture of Minova, a strategic city in Kalehe Territory, on Tuesday. The takeover has raised alarms over the rebels’ growing presence in the region, and their ability to control key locations in eastern Congo.
The United Nations estimates that over 237,000 people have been displaced by the violence in the region since January. The humanitarian crisis continues to worsen as the conflict stretches into its third year, leaving many without shelter or basic necessities.
M23, a Tutsi-led rebel group, claims to be defending Tutsi interests against Hutu militias, which are allegedly linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The group’s resurgence, attributed in part to support from Rwanda, has exacerbated tensions between Congo and its eastern neighbor.
Despite ongoing accusations of Rwandan involvement in the conflict, the Rwandan government has consistently denied any support for the rebels. The situation has led to increased instability in the Great Lakes region, with regional powers calling for a peaceful resolution to prevent further loss of life.
The fighting shows no signs of abating, and the international community is urging both sides to engage in dialogue to address the humanitarian crisis and pave the way for a lasting peace.