M23 Rebels’ Advance in Goma Leaves Families Devastated

The M23 rebels’ advance in Goma has devastated families and led to severe injuries and fatalities, as civilians like 13-year-old Heshima bear the burden of conflict. Accusations of Rwandan backing persist, while hospitals struggle with overwhelming casualties. Locals express fear and uncertainty under M23’s control, despite promises of peace. Displaced individuals face ultimatums and dire living conditions, raising concerns over human rights abuses and the region’s wealth.

In Goma city, eastern DR Congo, the advance of M23 rebels has left families devastated, with numerous casualties. A 13-year-old boy named Heshima is receiving treatment in an overcrowded hospital, where he suffered severe injuries, while also losing both parents. His relative, Tantine, holds M23 rebels responsible, noting the loss of six family members due to their actions during a recent bombing.

The M23 rebels, mainly composed of ethnic Tutsis, claim to be liberating the region from a failing state and its president, Félix Tshisekedi. The group has gained significant territory since 2022, reportedly with support from Rwanda and its troops, despite denials from the Rwandan government. The fighting has resulted in a heavy toll, with around 3,000 fatalities according to UN estimates.

At Ndosho Hospital, where Heshima is treated, doctors face overwhelming demand with patients being admitted at alarming rates, sometimes reaching 150 in a single day. The International Committee of the Red Cross has been supporting the hospital, but medical supplies were looted at the conflict’s onset, exacerbating the situation for both staff and patients.

While daily life in Goma appears to resume, with roadside vendors and open shops, the M23 maintains control without visible displays of force, fostering an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Community members are cautious about speaking out, as many journalists engage in self-censorship, waiting to see how the new regime will behave.

M23 leaders pledge promises of peace, security, and development, yet they have also issued ultimatums to tens of thousands of displaced individuals living in refugee camps, demanding their departure. Many are frightened and feel that this ‘voluntary’ return is hardly an option, given their destitute conditions.

Human rights organizations accuse the M23 of severe abuses, paralleling accusations leveled at the Congolese army. The ongoing conflict is rooted in historical tensions dating back to the Rwandan genocide and its aftermath, as various groups vie for control over the region’s rich natural resources.

As families like Alphonsine’s prepare to leave the camps, facing uncertain futures, their prospects appear grim. With homes destroyed and nothing to return to, they continue to endure suffering, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian crises in this region. Historical patterns suggest that the wealth beneath DR Congo’s soil will not benefit the affected populations.

The conflict involving M23 rebels in Goma has resulted in immense suffering for local families, as seen through the plight of individuals like Heshima. M23’s control has led to significant casualties and upheaval, compounded by the involvement of Rwandan forces. Despite promises of stability, human rights abuses are reported, and displaced families face dire prospects, raising questions about the lasting implications of this conflict for the region and its resources.

Original Source: www.bbc.com