
Faith Nyasuguta
In a significant escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), M23 rebels have taken control of Goma airport. This development has potentially cut off the main route for aid to reach hundreds of thousands of displaced people, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis.
The M23 fighters marched into Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, on Monday. This offensive marked the worst escalation since 2012 in a conflict rooted in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide and the struggle for control of Congo’s abundant mineral resources. The capture of the airport is a strategic victory for the rebels, as it was the primary entry point for humanitarian aid, peacekeepers, and supplies for the Congolese army.
The United Nations has described the situation in Goma as “tense and fluid,” with reports of heavy small arms fire and mortar fire across the city. The presence of many dead bodies in the streets has been reported, along with incidents of rape, looting, and attacks on humanitarian health facilities.

Hospitals are overwhelmed with wounded individuals, and the fighting has sent thousands of people streaming out of the city, including those who had recently sought refuge from the M23’s offensive.
In the Congolese capital, Kinshasa, protesters attacked a UN compound and embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, and the United States, expressing anger at what they perceive as foreign interference. Looters also ransacked the Kenyan embassy.
The Congolese government and the head of UN peacekeeping have stated that Rwandan troops are present in Goma, supporting their M23 allies. Rwanda, however, has claimed it is defending itself against the threat from Congolese militias without directly commenting on whether its troops have crossed the border.

The capture of Goma airport by the M23 rebels has significant implications for the region. Goma is a major hub for people displaced by fighting elsewhere in eastern Congo and for aid groups seeking to assist them. The loss of the airport as a supply route could severely hinder humanitarian efforts and exacerbate the already critical situation.
Additionally, the economic impact of the rebels’ control over the airport cannot be understated. Goma serves as a vital commercial center, and the capture of its airport disrupts trade and economic activities, further plunging the region into economic instability. Small businesses and traders who rely on the airport for transporting goods are facing significant challenges, affecting livelihoods and the local economy.

International response has been swift, with various governments and international organizations condemning the actions of the M23 rebels. Calls for immediate ceasefire and dialogue have been reiterated, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The African Union and the United Nations have offered to mediate talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels to facilitate a peaceful settlement and restore stability in the region.
The humanitarian aid community is mobilizing resources to address the urgent needs of those affected by the conflict. Emergency relief efforts are being coordinated to provide food, water, medical care, and shelter to displaced people. However, the volatile security situation hampers the delivery of aid, putting many lives at risk.
As the conflict continues to escalate, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The capture of Goma airport highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustained approach to address the root causes of the conflict and promote long-term peace and stability in the DRC.
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