The Fall of Goma: A City in Crisis
Goma, a once-thriving city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, has fallen into the hands of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The city, which was captured on January 28, 2025, was not only a vital trade and humanitarian hub but also home to over two million people. The takeover by the M23 rebels has brought life in Goma to a grinding halt. Economic activities have drastically slowed down, with banks remaining closed and basic services struggling to restart. The city, which was once bustling with activity, is now a shadow of its former self. The streets, once filled with the sounds of commerce and daily life, are now eerily quiet, punctuated only by the presence of armed rebels. The displacement of thousands of people has added to the city’s woes, with many desperate for aid and temporary shelter.
Struggle for Survival: The Humanitarian Crisis
The capture of Goma has exacerbated the already dire humanitarian situation in the region. The city and its surroundings were already hosting over 500,000 displaced people before the rebels took over. This number has grown significantly as the conflict escalated, with hundreds of thousands more fleeing their homes in search of safety. The United Nations has reported that many of these displaced individuals have been forced to flee multiple times, adding to their suffering. The situation has become even more desperate for residents like Jeannette Safari, a 26-year-old mother of one who was working as a civil servant before the takeover. With government offices shut down, Safari is now planning to flee to Burundi, where she hopes life will be cheaper and more manageable. Her story is just one of many, as thousands of government workers and ordinary citizens struggle to make ends meet under M23 control.
Life Under M23: A City in Fear
Despite the rebels’ efforts to consolidate their administration and restart normal life, Goma remains a city in fear. The M23 has attempted to strengthen its grip by restoring basic services like electricity and water supplies. However, these efforts have done little to ease the tensions and uncertainty that grip the city. The streets, once bustling with traffic and shoppers, are now heavily militarized, with armed rebels patrolling every corner. The fear of what could happen next is palpable, and many residents are living in a state of constant anxiety. The rebels’ control has also led to concerns about their intentions, with the Congolese government accusing them of human rights abuses and advancing the interests of Rwanda.
The Economic Toll: A City on the Brink
The economic impact of the M23’s takeover has been severe. With banks closed and commercial activities at a standstill, the city’s economy is on the brink of collapse. The local branch of the Central Bank of Congo remains shuttered, and the absence of banking services has made it impossible for businesses to operate normally. Currency exchangers like Karu Lievain are struggling to make a living, as the flow of money has dried up. This has led to concerns that the rebels could seek alternative banking systems independent of the Congolese government’s control, further complicating efforts to stabilize the region. The prolonged suspension of banking activities has already weakened the local economy, squeezing a population that is already struggling with job losses and rising prices.
Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis: A Region in Chaos
The capture of Goma has deepened the humanitarian crisis in the region. The number of refugees fleeing the city has surged, with hundreds attempting to cross the border into Rwanda. Many are seeking the "CEPGL" pass that facilitates free movement within the Great Lakes region, but the process is slow and cumbersome. The U.N. has warned that the situation could worsen if the rebels continue their advance, as more people will be forced to flee their homes. The displaced population is not only struggling to find shelter but also facing severe shortages of food and other essential supplies. The situation is particularly dire for women and children, who are bearing the brunt of the conflict.
The Road Ahead: A Call for International Intervention
The situation in Goma and the surrounding regions is dire and requires immediate attention from regional and international communities. The Congolese government has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, and while Rwanda has denied these allegations, the involvement of Rwandan troops in the conflict has raised the stakes. Analysts warn that the situation could escalate into a regional war unless urgent action is taken. The M23 has agreed to talks pushed for by neighboring countries, but the Congolese government remains skeptical of their intentions, citing human rights abuses and the rebels’ alleged links to Rwanda. For now, the people of Goma can only hope that a peaceful resolution is reached soon, allowing them to rebuild their lives and their city.
