Deadly Conflict in Goma: Civilian Casualties Mount as Rebels Advance

In eastern DR Congo, the city of Goma is reeling from violence that has claimed nearly 3, 000 lives, according to the United Nations. The chaos unfolded as rebels from the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) seized control of Goma. The takeover followed intense battles with the Congolese army. Vivian van de Perre, the deputy head of the UN mission in DR Congo, revealed a grim picture. She reported that 2, 000 bodies had been gathered from the streets of Goma, and 900 more lay in the city’s morgues. "We expect the death toll to rise, " Van de Perre warned. Her statement highlighted the ongoing crisis, as many bodies remained scattered and decomposing in various parts of the city. Goma's population, around 2 million people, is grappling with the aftermath. The AFC, which includes the M23 armed group, declared a ceasefire on Tuesday. They cited the humanitarian crisis caused by the Congolese government as their reason. However, the Congolese government denied the authenticity of the ceasefire. Fierce fighting continued, particularly in South Kivu province. DR Congo's decades-long conflict is fueled by ethnic tensions and fights over land and mineral resources. This has led to one of the world's worst humanitarian crises. The region houses valuable minerals, such as coltan, which is crucial for making phones and computers. This resource-rich area has drawn the attention of international actors. Despite hopes for a ceasefire, the situation remains tense. Fighting persists near Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, and the M23 rebels continue to advance. The UN expressed grave concern over the loss of Kavumu airport in Bukavu. This airport is essential for civilian and humanitarian operations in the region. The AFC has stated that it has no plans to seize Bukavu or other areas, but it remains committed to safeguarding the civilian population and its positions in the region. The rebels' territorial gains have been swift and significant. They have captured key towns and cities and now aim to control strategic areas including the national capital, Kinshasa. The distance from Goma to Kinshasa is approximately 1, 500 kilometers (930 miles). Back in the city, the AFC is consolidating its control. They have taken over Goma and other territories in North Kivu. The Congolese government has not formally acknowledged a rebel takeover. However, it has appointed a new military governor of North Kivu to tackle the violence. The flight of nearly 2, 000 civilians to UN peacekeeping bases in Goma underscores the dire situation.