Saturday, August 23, 2025
Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo Renewed fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has dashed hopes for peace, as negotiations between the government and armed groups continue to stall, leaving millions of civilians trapped in a worsening humanitarian crisis.
Clashes between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the M23 rebel movement have intensified in North Kivu province, displacing thousands in recent weeks. Local officials report that entire communities have been forced to flee their homes, seeking shelter in overcrowded camps around Goma, where food, water, and medical supplies remain critically scarce.
Peace talks mediated by regional blocs, including the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU), have failed to make progress in recent months. Despite multiple ceasefire agreements, both government forces and armed groups accuse each other of violating truce terms.
"The lack of trust between the warring sides continues to undermine dialogue," said a regional mediator. "Without genuine commitment, peace efforts risk collapsing entirely."
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) estimates that over 7 million people are currently displaced in the DRC, the highest figure in the country's history. Humanitarian organizations warn that escalating violence is exacerbating food insecurity, heightening the risk of disease outbreaks, and increasing incidents of gender based violence.
Aid agencies have called for safe humanitarian corridors to deliver assistance to conflict affected populations, but insecurity and blocked roads have severely hampered relief operations.
The DRC government continues to accuse Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, an allegation Rwanda denies. The tensions have strained regional relations, with fears that prolonged conflict could destabilize the wider Great Lakes region.
International partners, including the United Nations and the European Union, have urged all parties to recommit to dialogue and prioritize civilian protection. However, observers note that military operations remain the primary focus on the ground, raising doubts about the immediate prospects for peace.
Civil society groups in the DRC are urging greater accountability for atrocities committed during the conflict, including attacks on civilians and the recruitment of child soldiers. They stress that sustainable peace will only be possible if justice, governance reforms, and inclusive political dialogue are prioritized alongside security measures.
As violence escalates, the people of eastern DRC remain caught in a cycle of displacement, insecurity, and uncertainty, with little sign of relief on the horizon.
Olagunju B.F
Source: Africanews.com
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