Kenya Mediates Critical Meeting Between Rwanda and Congo Amid Rising Tensions
Kenyan President William Ruto announced a meeting between Rwandan and Congolese leaders to address the capture of Goma by M23 rebels. The conflict has heightened fears of violence and mass displacement, prompting urgent humanitarian concerns. Displaced residents express growing desperation as local conditions deteriorate amid ongoing clashes and accusations of foreign military involvement.
Kenyan President William Ruto announced on Monday that the leaders of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) will convene on Wednesday to address the escalating situation in eastern Congo, where M23 rebels have claimed control of Goma. Ruto emphasized the urgent nature of this issue, stressing that it goes beyond local concerns, affecting the entire region. “The situation in eastern DRC now demands our collective focus,” he stated during a press conference.
The capture of Goma, a city with a population of approximately 2 million, has caused alarm regarding potential violence and displacement of civilians. A journalist in Goma reported ongoing combat near the city’s airport, leading to heightened tensions as residents seek safety amid escalating gunfire.
Congo has accused Rwanda of assisting M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda has repeatedly denied. The Congolese government asserted on Monday that Rwandan troops are present in Goma, but there has been no immediate response from Rwandan officials. Government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya expressed concern for the residents’ safety, urging them to remain indoors amid the turmoil.
M23 spokesman Lawrence Kanyuka stated that the rebels took control of Goma following serious clashes with Congolese forces. The fighting has incited fear and panic among the city’s residents and has caused significant displacement, particularly affecting individuals who had previously fled from violence in surrounding areas.
Mugunga, a major displacement camp near Goma, is witnessing an influx of newly displaced individuals. One resident described fleeing violence in Sake the previous year only to find themselves on the run once more, adding, “We have no food, no shelter, and no idea where we will end up. This is no life.”
As confrontations continue, the situation remains uncertain in nearby Sake, crucial to North Kivu province. Reports indicate ongoing clashes between M23 fighters and the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC), resulting in further instability. Tragedy struck with the reported death of North Kivu Governor Major General Peter Cirimwami from injuries sustained during combat.
Humanitarian conditions have deteriorated significantly in the region, with the UN stating that over 5.5 million people are displaced in Congo, many in North Kivu. Displaced individuals like Lomoo Biondo Manuel express an urgent desire for peace, lamenting their difficult circumstances and yearning to return home.
In Mugunga camp, displaced families are resorting to makeshift shelters in schools and abandoned buildings. One woman appealed for government action to halt the violence, urging, “We call on the government to end this war so we can return to our homes.”
The resurgence of M23 has reignited scrutiny towards Rwanda, with a recent UN report alleging its involvement in M23 activities, a claim that has been categorically rejected by Rwandan authorities.
The article addresses the escalating conflict in eastern Congo, primarily in Goma, where M23 rebels have successfully seized control. This situation has prompted a meeting between the presidents of Kenya, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Long-standing tensions between Congo and Rwanda are highlighted, as accusations of Rwandan support for rebel factions surface. The humanitarian implications are profound, as thousands are displaced and in desperate need of assistance.
In summary, the situation in Goma represents a grave humanitarian crisis exacerbated by ongoing conflict and displacement. With the regional leaders convening to discuss these pressing issues, there exists a critical hope for stability. However, the challenges are significant, with accusations of foreign involvement adding complexity to the conflict and humanitarian woes intensifying for countless displaced individuals.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
