Devastation in Goma: M23 Rebels Impact Families Amid Ongoing Conflict
The conflict in Goma, DR Congo, has left many families devastated, particularly children like Heshima, who suffers from severe injuries and has lost both parents. The M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwanda, have taken control of significant areas, prompting a humanitarian crisis evidenced by overflowing hospitals and forced displacements. Despite promises of peace from the rebels, evidence suggests widespread violence and human rights abuses, raising concerns about future stability in the region.
In Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, Heshima, a 13-year-old boy, lies in a hospital tent, suffering from severe injuries, including a leg amputation and extensive burn marks. Tragically, both of his parents have been killed amidst the ongoing conflict attributed to M23 rebels, who are accused of targeting families as they battle the Congolese army (FARDC). Tantine, a relative, recounted the day when Heshima lost six family members due to airstrikes during the clash between the M23 and FARDC.
The M23 rebels claim to be fighting for the group’s freedom and promise peace to the war-torn region, yet their advance has resulted in devastation. With support from Rwandan troops, the rebels have gained control of critical cities in this mineral-rich area bordering Rwanda. Despite these claims, UN experts assert Rwanda’s dominance over the M23, a narrative denied by both Kigali and President Paul Kagame.
At Ndosho Hospital, the consequences of this conflict manifest as medical staff struggle to treat an overwhelming influx of wounded, highlighting the dire state of healthcare in Goma. The Red Cross indicates that medical supplies were initially plundered, and facilities plunged into chaos, facing extreme workloads with 100-150 new patients daily. Although the daily admissions have decreased to around ten, the toll on medical professionals remains severe.
Life in Goma has resumed somewhat, with shops open and locals seen on the streets, yet the grip of the M23 is evident as their presence looms without the need for visible military displays. Community sentiment varies; some residents express acceptance of the rebels, while others remain apprehensive about possible reprisals, living in fear and uncertainty regarding the future.
The M23’s new vice-governor proclaimed aspirations of peace and stability via social media, yet displaced individuals in Goma, including Divine, report being forcibly uprooted from their camps, leading to feelings of desperation and fear. Many families are reluctantly packing their belongings, facing an uncertain journey back to their destroyed homes.
Human rights organizations have criticized both the M23 and the FARDC for violations, including indiscriminate violence and severe abuses against civilians. The historical roots of this violence trace back to the Rwandan genocide of 1994, which continues to impact the region as Rwanda’s motives remain scrutinized for their interests in Congo’s vast resources.
The rampant exploitation of natural wealth in the region has raised alarms about a potential resurgence of regional hostilities, posing risks that extend far beyond Africa. In light of this, it remains unlikely that local communities will reap any benefits from the resources drawn from their land. The plight of affected individuals, such as Alphonsine, illustrates the depth of suffering, as they embark on arduous journeys back to ruins, embodying the ongoing tragedy ingrained in this cycle of conflict.
The situation in Goma highlights the severe humanitarian crisis stemming from the conflict fueled by M23 rebels and the Congolese military. Families are devastated, and communities are under threat, facing dislocation and violence. The historical context compounds the current turmoil, raising concerns over human rights violations and the impact of resource exploitation. The future remains uncertain, with fears of escalating violence as local populations bear the brunt of this prolonged conflict.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
