DR Congo: UN calls for reopening of Goma airport amid escalating crisis
February 4, 2025
The United Nations has urged authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to immediately reopen Goma airport, a vital lifeline for humanitarian aid delivery and civilian evacuations in the face of a deepening crisis in the region.
Goma airport, located in the eastern city of Goma, has been closed since January 25 due to heavy fighting between government forces and M23 rebels, who have seized control of large swaths of territory in recent months. The closure has severely hampered humanitarian operations and limited the ability of civilians to flee violence.
“The closure of Goma airport is having a devastating impact on the population,” said David Gressly, the UN Humanitarian Coordinator in the DRC. “We are calling on all parties to the conflict to immediately allow for the safe reopening of the airport.”
The crisis in eastern DRC has escalated in recent weeks, with M23 rebels making significant gains. Over 170,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and thousands have sought refuge in neighboring Rwanda and Uganda.
The UN has warned that the situation is at risk of spiraling out of control, with civilians facing grave dangers and humanitarian needs rapidly growing. Aid agencies are struggling to reach affected areas due to insecurity and access constraints, and the closure of Goma airport has further exacerbated the challenges.
“The airport is a vital lifeline for the delivery of humanitarian assistance and for the evacuation of civilians,” Gressly emphasized. “Its continued closure will only prolong the suffering of the population.”
The UN has appealed to the international community to increase its support for the DRC, including providing financial aid for humanitarian operations and assistance in pressuring all parties to the conflict to respect international law and humanitarian principles.
The African Union and the Great Lakes region have also called for the reopening of Goma airport and a cessation of hostilities. Regional leaders are expected to meet soon to discuss the crisis and seek a peaceful resolution.
Meanwhile, the UN continues to provide humanitarian assistance to affected populations, distributing food, water, and medical supplies to those in need. The UN also supports the Congolese government in its efforts to protect civilians and restore stability to the region.
Additional Information:
- The M23 rebel group was formed in 2012 by former members of the Congolese army.
- The conflict in eastern DRC has been ongoing for decades, fueled by ethnic tensions, political instability, and the exploitation of natural resources.
- The UN has deployed a peacekeeping mission, MONUSCO, to the DRC since 1999.
- The international community has repeatedly condemned the violence and human rights abuses committed by all parties to the conflict.
DR Congo: UN call to reopen Goma airport ‘lifeline’, as crisis deepens
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