NZULO, Congo — The M23 militant group has intensified its offensive towards Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, resulting in the displacement of over 178,000 individuals in just the last fortnight, according to the United Nations. The situation has escalated as the rebel forces have drawn closer to this strategically vital city, which borders Rwanda.
The M23 has seen substantial territorial gains; however, it remains uncertain if they intend to seize Goma again. They previously took control of the city in 2012, holding it for more than a week. Authorities in Congo reported on Tuesday that M23 fighters have captured the town of Minova, a crucial supply route linking to Goma that is essential for regional security and humanitarian operations.
This militia is one of around 100 armed groups competing for control over the mineral-rich eastern regions of Congo, which has been the focal point of a prolonged conflict contributing to one of the largest humanitarian crises globally. More than seven million individuals have been forced from their homes due to ongoing violence and instability.
The governments of Congo, the United States, and various U.N. experts have alleged that Rwanda is providing support for M23, which consists primarily of ethnic Tutsis who defected from the Congolese military over ten years ago. The government of Rwanda, however, has refuted these claims.
On Tuesday, the U.N. humanitarian agency indicated that the recent surge in displacement stems from clashes near Minova in the South Kivu province. Thousands have arrived in Goma, escaping on overcrowded wooden boats, carrying their meager possessions tied around their heads.
The Nzulo camp, situated on the outskirts of Goma, has been inundated with displaced individuals seeking refuge. Goma itself is the capital of North Kivu province and is home to nearly 2 million residents. Yet, some already began to evacuate the camp as rebel forces closed in.
David Kasereka, who fled on a motorbike with a child, conveyed his fear and uncertainty: “We don’t know where we are going, because everywhere, the bombs are following us.” Meanwhile, Nadège Bauma, displaced previously by ferocious combat in Sake, quickly gathered her belongings to escape yet again, stating, “We just learned that the M23 have arrived in Ngwiro. We decided to leave the area because bullets and bombs are falling.”
Jean-Jacques Purusi, the provincial governor of South Kivu, validated the takeover of Minova by rebels, reporting that they have also gained control of several mining towns such as Lumbishi, Numbi, and Shanje, as well as Bweremana in North Kivu province. In a statement made on Tuesday, Congo’s military acknowledged the rebels’ “breakthroughs” in both Minova and Bweremana, highlighting the worsening situation in the region.
