The United Nations has reported a devastating escalation in violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, with at least 700 people killed and 2,800 injured in Goma since Sunday. The conflict, which has seen M23 rebels take control of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, poses a significant threat as the group advances south towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu.
Background of the Conflict
The conflict in eastern DR Congo, which traces back to the 1990s, has intensified in recent weeks. The M23 movement, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsis, asserts its actions are in defense of minority rights. However, the DR Congo government accuses the rebels, backed by Rwanda, of aiming to dominate the region’s rich mineral resources.
Casualty Figures and Rebel Advance
UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric relayed the dire casualty figures, assessed by the World Health Organization and its partners, emphasizing the likelihood of an increasing death toll. In a defensive effort, the DR Congo military has established a barrier on the main road between Goma and Bukavu, and hundreds of civilians have volunteered to defend Bukavu against the rebel advance. The determination of the local population is palpable, with one volunteer stating his readiness to die for his country.
International Reactions and Allegations
The situation has drawn international attention, with DR Congo’s Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner accusing Rwanda of attempting to orchestrate a regime change. Wagner criticized the international community for what she perceives as decades of impunity granted to Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Conversely, Rwanda’s government spokeswoman, Yolande Makolo, denied these accusations, stating Rwanda’s involvement is solely to prevent the conflict from spilling over.
Regional and International Support
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has voiced its support for DR Congo, with the regional bloc sending peacekeeping forces primarily from South Africa to help stabilize the region. The recent SADC summit in Zimbabwe reaffirmed its commitment to supporting DR Congo’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Humanitarian Crisis
The ongoing conflict has severely impacted the humanitarian situation in eastern DR Congo. According to Shelley Thakral from the UN’s World Food Programme, Goma’s residents are facing severe shortages of food, clean water, and medical supplies, exacerbated by the disruption of supply chains. Over 400,000 people have been displaced since the beginning of 2025, adding to the region’s longstanding refugee crisis.
Historical Context
The DR Congo has a history of conflicts that have involved multiple neighboring countries, often referred to as Africa’s World Wars. The current situation risks a similar regional escalation, making international diplomatic and humanitarian efforts crucial.
The international community, alongside regional forces, faces the urgent task of addressing both the immediate impacts of the fighting and the underlying issues that have fueled decades of conflict in the region. The situation remains dynamic, with the potential for further escalation as M23 continues its advance.