Thousands flee as rebels seize’ Congo’s largest city

Rwanda-backed rebels claim to have taken over Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo’s largest city, following weeks of violent clashes with Congolese security forces that have forced thousands to flee their homes.

- JUSTIN KABUMBA

Gunshots rang out across Goma overnight before dozens of men in military uniform were seen early yesterday morning marching with their guns into the city, which is the capital of North Kivu province. It was unclear if the men were part of the M23 rebel group. The DRC government has not confirmed the reported takeover. M23, which is backed by Rwanda, is one of about 100 armed factions vying for a foothold in the mineral-rich region. The rebels temporarily took over Goma in 2012 and resurfaced in late 2021, with increasing support from Rwanda, according to the Congolese government and United Nations experts. Rwanda has denied such support.

Analysts have warned the latest escalation of hostilities could further destabilise the region, which is already experiencing one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises with more than six million people displaced. More than a third of North Kivu’s population are among the group, according to a UN report.