By Emmanuel Nduka
The M23 rebel group, backed by Rwanda, has declared a unilateral ceasefire in Goma, a strategically important city in eastern Congo, to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region.
In a statement issued Monday, the rebel faction announced the ceasefire effective Tuesday, citing the urgent need for aid and the dire circumstances faced by over 400,000 displaced individuals. This comes in response to international calls for safe passage for humanitarian supplies to those most in need.
Heritage Times HT reports that despite the ceasefire, Goma remains under rebel control, with no immediate response from the Congolese government. The city, rich in mineral resources, has long been a focal point of conflict.
The United Nations has raised alarms about escalating health risks in the region, with some economic activities beginning to resume, but schools, banks, and essential services still paralyzed by the unrest.
Food shortages persist, further exacerbating the suffering of local populations.
In a broader context, the M23 group, part of the larger Congo River Alliance, has claimed territorial gains in the region but stated they do not plan to extend their positions.
They emphasized their commitment to safeguarding civilians, accusing the Congolese military of airstrikes that have led to civilian casualties in rebel-held territories.
The death toll has reached at least 900, with nearly 3,000 injured, as violence around Goma continues.
The situation has drawn condemnation from the international community, including G7 nations and the European Union, who have denounced the offensive as an infringement on the sovereignty of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Humanitarian agencies have warned that the ongoing conflict has displaced more than 400,000 people since January 2025, adding to the millions already uprooted by years of instability in the region.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame, whose country is accused of backing the rebels, has remained non-committal about the presence of Rwandan troops in Congo, despite assertions that Rwanda will take any necessary steps to protect its security.
The international community, including human rights organizations, has called for increased pressure on Rwanda to withdraw its forces.
DR Congo’s communications minister, Patrick Muyaya, urged global powers to impose sanctions on Rwanda, warning that strong action is necessary to preserve peace in the region.
