United Nations Raises Alarm Over Humanitarian Crisis in Goma, DRC

The United Nations has expressed serious concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Goma, DRC, amid ongoing clashes between Congolese forces and Rwandan-backed rebels. The situation has led to overwhelmed hospitals and the suspension of food programs. Crisis discussions involving regional leaders are set to address the conflict, with calls for immediate ceasefires to safeguard civilians.

Gunfire erupted in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as the United Nations highlighted a grave humanitarian situation due to clashes involving Rwandan-backed rebels. U.N. humanitarian office spokesperson Jens Laerke reported that local hospitals are overwhelmed, while the World Food Program has temporarily halted food assistance in the area.
In response to the escalating violence, crisis talks are scheduled for Wednesday with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, facilitated by Kenyan President William Ruto, who emphasized that there is no military resolution to the conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the assault on Goma in a phone conversation with President Tshisekedi, affirming support for DRC’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, U.N. resident coordinator in the DRC, Bruno Lemarquis, warned that fighting is still ongoing, despite rebel claims of control.
The humanitarian impact is extensive, with disruptions to essential services such as water and electricity as well as looted humanitarian warehouses. In early January, M23 rebels resumed a large-scale offensive after breaking a ceasefire, with reports that they are advancing into South Kivu province.
The U.N. Security Council and Secretary-General Antonio Guterres have called for an immediate ceasefire and the withdrawal of M23 and Rwandan forces from occupied territories. Lemarquis urged for humanitarian pauses and corridors to facilitate aid and the evacuation of civilians trapped in combat zones.
The UN announced a $17 million allocation from its emergency fund to address urgent humanitarian needs in DRC. Nonessential U.N. personnel are being evacuated from Goma, while the U.N. peacekeeping force (MONUSCO) has enhanced its presence to counter the rebels’ advance.
Jean-Pierre Lacroix, U.N. peacekeeping chief, asserted the necessity of an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the priority of protecting civilians. Recently, three U.N. peacekeepers have been killed, underscoring the perilous conditions.
Prior to the current violence, eastern DRC faced one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with nearly 6.5 million people displaced due to ongoing conflict over valuable mineral resources.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by conflict involving various armed groups, including the M23 rebels. The situation in Goma is particularly dire given that it is a center for humanitarian aid amidst widespread violence and instability. The U.N. has engaged various parties to mediate and find peaceful solutions to restore order and facilitate humanitarian assistance, which is critical in addressing the needs of millions affected by displacement and violence. The humanitarian crisis is compounded by prior longstanding tensions in the region and ongoing threats to civilians.

The situation in Goma, DRC, continues to deteriorate amid armed clashes and humanitarian crises. There is an urgent need for comprehensive dialogue to achieve peace and a commitment to protect civilians. International support and attention are essential to assist those impacted by the violence and to restore stability in the region. The U.N. and other entities remain active in calling for the cessation of hostilities and the provision of humanitarian assistance.

Original Source: www.voanews.com