Rwandan-backed rebels, led by the Tutsi-dominated M23 militia, marched into the strategic city of Goma on Monday, marking the worst escalation in the region’s decade-long conflict. The United Nations confirmed the presence of Rwandan troops supporting the rebels, as heavy fighting erupted in the city of over 2 million people, a crucial hub for humanitarian efforts.
The M23 alliance declared control over Goma, including its national broadcaster offices. Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa claimed victory, although conflicting reports emerged from the government and international sources. Congolese officials stated that 80% of the city remained under their control, with Rwandan troops positioned on the outskirts or back across the border.
The violence has sparked a humanitarian crisis. Explosives struck a camp for displaced people, killing civilians and targeting a maternity hospital, resulting in fatalities among newborns and pregnant women, according to the UN. Looting and jailbreaks have further destabilized the city, with thousands of inmates escaping Goma's main prison.
The DRC has accused Rwanda of using M23 to occupy mineral-rich territories, claims Rwanda denies. Rwanda countered with accusations of Congolese shelling that killed five people in Rubavu, a border town. The UN has expressed concerns that the crisis could spiral into a regional war.
The UN Security Council will convene on Tuesday to address the crisis, following Congo’s request for targeted sanctions against Rwanda. Meanwhile, Congo's President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda’s Paul Kagame are set to attend a virtual meeting on Wednesday.
The M23 previously captured Goma in 2012 before withdrawing under a regional agreement. After years of inactivity, the group launched a fresh offensive in 2022, capturing significant parts of North Kivu province. Nangaa has signaled ambitions to challenge the Congolese government, stating the group’s ultimate goal is Kinshasa, the nation's capital.
As the situation unfolds, fears of further displacement and a deeper humanitarian catastrophe loom over the region, already plagued by decades of instability and conflict.