In the Democratic Republic of Congo, the city of Goma and its surrounding towns and villages are witnessing a massive exodus as the conflict between the Congolese army and M23 rebels escalates. Residents, caught in the crossfire, are fleeing their homes in search of safety within Goma, despite the city itself becoming a battleground.
Olive Luanda from Sake, a village in the vicinity of Goma, recounted the chaos that ensued as soldiers retreated in the face of the advancing M23 rebels. “The soldiers warned us that the M23 rebels were coming closer, and fleeing was our only option,” Luanda explained, depicting a scene of panic and desperation that prompted civilians to abandon their homes.
Armed militiamen gather near Rutshuru, 70 kms (45 miles) north of Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo,Wednesday June 22, 2022. Earlier in the week, East Africa’s leaders have responded to the threat of war between Rwanda and Congo by instructing a new regional force to deploy in eastern Congo and ordering an immediate cease-fire. A statement after the meeting in Kenya’s capital does not give details on the date of deployment of the force or its composition. (AP Photo/Moses Sawasawa)
The journey to Goma, though seen as a path to relative safety, is fraught with danger. Reports of rockets landing on the outskirts of Goma have heightened fears among the displaced population, though, so far, there have been no casualties from these incidents. The indiscriminate nature of the attacks underscores the unpredictable danger facing civilians.
Alain Bauma, another displaced resident, shared his ordeal of leaving Sake and arriving in Goma, burdened with his belongings. “We left because we were afraid for our lives. Now, the city is under attack, and it feels like there’s nowhere safe left,” Bauma said, capturing the despair of many who sought refuge in Goma only to find the conflict following them.
President Felix Tshisekedi‘s inability to stem the violence, despite his reelection promises of peace and stability, has cast doubt on the government’s capacity to protect its citizens. The conflict’s complexity is deepened by accusations against Rwanda for allegedly supporting the M23 rebels, claims that have been echoed by the United Nations and vehemently denied by Rwanda.
