DR Congo emergency: Fears that regional capital Goma faces attack
24 January 2025 12:00
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – Fears are mounting that the regional capital of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) could face an attack by rebel forces.
The M23 rebel group has been advancing towards Goma in recent weeks, and has now reached the outskirts of the city. The group has accused the Congolese government of failing to implement a peace deal that was signed in 2013, and has vowed to take Goma by force if necessary.
The Congolese government has deployed troops to defend Goma, but there are fears that the city could be overrun if the M23 rebels launch a full-scale attack.
The United Nations has expressed concern about the situation in Goma, and has called on both sides to refrain from violence. The UN has also deployed peacekeepers to the city to help protect civilians.
The situation in Goma is fluid, and it is unclear what will happen next. However, there is a real risk that the city could be plunged into a full-scale war.
Background
The M23 rebel group is a Tutsi-led rebel group based in the eastern DRC. The group was formed in 2012 by former members of the Congolese army who mutinied over pay and conditions.
The M23 rebels have been fighting the Congolese government since 2012, and have been accused of committing serious human rights abuses, including murder, rape and torture.
In 2013, the M23 rebels signed a peace deal with the Congolese government. However, the group has accused the government of failing to implement the deal, and has vowed to take Goma by force if necessary.
Impact
If the M23 rebels launch a full-scale attack on Goma, it could have a devastating impact on the city. The city is home to over 1 million people, and many of them could be displaced if fighting breaks out.
The fighting could also damage the city’s infrastructure, including its hospitals, schools and businesses. This could have a long-term impact on the city’s development.
Response
The Congolese government has deployed troops to defend Goma, and the UN has deployed peacekeepers to the city to help protect civilians. However, it is unclear whether these forces will be able to prevent the M23 rebels from taking Goma.
The international community has called on both sides to refrain from violence, and has urged the Congolese government to implement the 2013 peace deal. However, it is unclear whether these calls will be heeded.
Conclusion
The situation in Goma is fluid, and it is unclear what will happen next. However, there is a real risk that the city could be plunged into a full-scale war. The international community must do everything it can to prevent this from happening.
DR Congo emergency: Fears that regional capital Goma faces attack
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