GOMA, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – rebel group M23 has declared that it has seized control of the city of Goma in eastern DRC, sparking fears of further destabilization in the resource-rich region. The government, however, denies these claims, asserting that its forces maintain control over strategic points, including the city’s airport.
Goma, a vital economic hub and home to over one million people, has witnessed intense fighting in recent days. Videos circulating online show M23 fighters patrolling major streets in the city, signaling a significant shift in control. Rebel advance has forced tens of thousands of residents to flee neighboring towns, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
Government Denial and Conflicting Reports
Despite M23’s claims, the Congolese government insists that its armed forces, FARDC, still hold key positions. “Contrary to manipulative messages circulating on social networks, FARDC holds Goma airport and all strategic points of the capital of North Kivu Province,” a government statement read on Monday.
However, local accounts paint a picture of confusion. While some residents report the presence of government troops or say large parts of the city appear to be under rebel control. Local journalist Akilimali Selah Chomachoma described the situation as “complicated,” with ongoing gunfire in certain areas.
Humanitarian Fallout
conflict has wreaked havoc on Goma’s population. Power and water supplies have been cut in many areas, and the city’s airport is now inoperable, hindering evacuation efforts and delivery of humanitarian aid. UN estimates that over 400,000 people have been displaced in North and South Kivu provinces since January 2025.
One resident, Alice Feza, who has fled multiple times from towns now under rebel control, expressed despair. “People are fleeing everywhere, and we don’t know where to go anymore,” she said.
Adding to the chaos, reports indicate a mass escape from Goma’s central prison, which housed over 3,000 inmates. Unverified videos shared on social media show prisoners fleeing the facility, which was reportedly set ablaze during clashes.
Regional and International Response
the crisis has prompted urgent regional and international reactions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on Rwanda to withdraw its forces from DRC territory and urged M23 to cease its advance and withdraw from occupied areas. Rwanda, which has been accused of supporting rebel groups, has not denied its involvement but blames the Congolese government for backing anti-Rwandan militias.
Kenyan President William Ruto, as chair of the East African Community, has called for a ceasefire and announced an emergency summit in the coming days to mediate conflict. Both DRC’s President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame are expected to attend.
Western nations have also weighed in, with the UK condemning attacks on UN peacekeepers and France calling for Rwanda’s immediate withdrawal from Congolese territory.
Background on M23
M23 rebel group, originally formed in 2012, claims to defend the Tutsi population in eastern DRC from alleged persecution. However, critics argue that Rwanda has leveraged groups to exploit the region’s abundant mineral wealth, including gold, cobalt, and tantalum. After years of dormancy, M23 resumed operations in 2021, rapidly gaining territory and challenging the DRC government’s authority.
Looking Ahead
the situation in Goma remains volatile, with no clear resolution in sight. While diplomatic efforts may offer a glimmer of hope, the immediate priority is addressing the humanitarian needs of the displaced and ensuring the safety of civilians still in conflict zones.
For residents like Alice Feza, survival hangs in balance as fighting rages on. “war catches us wherever we go,” she said, “and now we have nowhere left to run.”
