By Gabs Mia
Goma, DRC: The Eastern Congolese city of Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is currently experiencing a severe humanitarian crisis. Hospitals are overwhelmed, displacement camps are inaccessible and civilians are trapped in a nightmare of violence and deprivation.
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has reported treating over 61 wounded individuals since Thursday at Kyeshero Hospital, with patients being redirected from the completely saturated Ndosho Hospital. Virginie Napolitano, MSF’s coordinator in Goma, warned, “The exact toll is hard to determine, but the human cost could be catastrophic” he says.
The situation in displacement camps is equally dire. Already overcrowded and under-resourced, these camps are now cut off from humanitarian aid due to intense fighting. MSF has issued an urgent appeal for the protection of civilians and safe access to deliver life-saving assistance. “The conditions in the camps are unbearable, and without immediate intervention, the suffering will only worsen,” Napolitano said.
A trainee doctor was tragically shot while working in the maternity ward of the provincial hospital situated at the base of Mount Goma. The incident occurred as military personnel were forced to retreat near the hospital due to gunfire on the heights of Mount Goma, highlighting the extent of violence that has permeated even safe havens like hospitals.
“He was seriously injured and lost a lot of blood, but his colleagues acted quickly. They took him to the operating room, managed to control the bleeding, and his condition is now stable,” said one of the doctors. This incident underscores the perilous conditions faced by medical staff and civilians alike as the conflict encroaches on every corner of the city.
A City Under Siege
As the humanitarian crisis deepens, Goma itself is under siege. Sporadic gunfire and explosions echo across the city, particularly near the airport, where heavy weaponry has been reported. The Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) and Wazalendo self-defense groups are resisting the advance of M23 rebels, who are allegedly backed by Rwanda. But the pressure is mounting, and the city’s civilians are caught in the crossfire.
Goma is now a city in darkness—literally and figuratively. Electricity has been cut, mobile data and fiber optics are down, and even the provincial antenna of the Congolese National Radio and Television (RTNC) has gone silent. Residents are isolated, unable to connect with the outside world or access critical information. The streets are chaotic, with confusion gripping the city center as the sound of gunfire grows louder.
Calls for Military and Political Reorganization
In response to the escalating crisis, the Bureau of the National Assembly has called for an immediate reorganization of the military command in North Kivu Province, particularly at the operational and regional military levels. Meeting on Monday, the Bureau, expanded to include members of the Defense and Security Commission, also urged a political and administrative reorganization of the province in areas still under the control of the FARDC.
This measure aims to strengthen crisis management while awaiting a return to calm in Goma, where clashes continue. The Bureau also demanded the establishment of a humanitarian corridor to assist civilians and prevent further bloodshed. Additionally, it called for the urgent restoration of essential services in the city, including water, electricity, and communications, which are currently cut off.
International Outcry, But Will Words Lead to Action?
The international community has reacted with alarm to M23’s advance on Goma. France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, condemned the offensive, stating, “M23 must withdraw from DRC territory and cease its attacks, which threaten the lives of civilians and peacekeepers.”
Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Bernard Quintin, called the situation an “unacceptable violation,” emphasizing that the capture of Goma breaches DRC’s territorial integrity and the Luanda ceasefire. “Words alone are not enough. The international community must act to uphold international law,” he declared.
In Kinshasa, government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya accused Rwanda of supporting M23, stating, “The government is working tirelessly to prevent further loss of life in the face of Rwanda’s clear intentions.” Prime Minister Judith Suminwa praised the FARDC and Wazalendo for their “exemplary determination” in defending the nation’s territorial integrity.
A Cry for Help from Goma’s Residents
For Goma’s civilians, the situation is unbearable. “We are living in darkness, both literally and figuratively,” said one resident. “We don’t know what tomorrow will bring.” The lack of basic services, coupled with the constant threat of violence, has left many in a state of fear and uncertainty.
The Clock is Ticking
As the night deepens over Goma, the city’s fate hangs in the balance. The humanitarian crisis is spiraling out of control, and the conflict shows no signs of abating. The international community faces mounting pressure to intervene, but for now, Goma remains a city under siege—its people trapped in darkness, clinging to hope amidst the chaos.
Will the world act before it’s too late? For the people of Goma, the answer can’t come soon enough.
