DRC Conflict: Kenyan Embassy in Kinshasa Attacked Amid Rising Violence
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has escalated, with battles intensifying in the eastern city of Goma and violent protests in Kinshasa. The situation has led to widespread humanitarian concerns and attacks on foreign embassies, including the Kenyan Embassy in Kinshasa.
Battles Intensify in Goma: Hospitals Overwhelmed by Casualties
Heavy clashes between M23 rebels and Congolese government forces have caused significant violence in Goma, a key city in eastern DRC. The M23 rebels have declared control over Goma, marking a major setback for the Congolese army. The violence has left streets littered with bodies, and hospitals are struggling to cope with the influx of injured civilians.
Rising Death Toll and Casualties
At least 17 people were reported dead in Goma on Monday, with hospital sources confirming 367 injuries. Civil society groups estimate the death toll at 25, with hundreds more wounded. Many casualties are suffering from gunshot, mortar, and shrapnel wounds.
Hospitals Overwhelmed by the Surge of Patients
Adelheid Marschang, WHO’s emergency response coordinator for DRC, described the situation as dire. Hospitals are overwhelmed with hundreds of patients, many of whom have sustained gunshot wounds.
Violence Continues Despite Some Calm
While some neighborhoods in Goma have reported moments of calm, sporadic shelling and small arms fire persist throughout the city. Bodies remain on the streets as fighting continues, and the humanitarian crisis deepens.
Protests and Attacks on Foreign Embassies
In Kinshasa, protests erupted against the international community’s perceived inaction. Angry protesters targeted several foreign embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, Belgium, the United States, Uganda, and South Africa. Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Secretary Korir Sing’Oei condemned the attacks, as some embassies, including France’s, were briefly set on fire.
International Reactions and Security Concerns
The US embassy in Kinshasa urged its citizens to shelter in place, while France’s Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot condemned the attack on the French embassy as “unacceptable.” Despite the situation, the embassies are working to restore security.
Food Aid Suspended Amid Growing Shortages
The World Food Programme (WFP) has paused its food assistance activities in Goma due to security concerns. The WFP expressed alarm over worsening food shortages in the region, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.
Rwanda’s Role Under Scrutiny
M23, a Tutsi-led rebel group, has retaken Goma after having been driven out in 2013. Many suspect Rwanda of providing military support to the rebels, although Rwanda denies the accusations. UN peacekeeping forces chief Jean-Pierre Lacroix stated that Rwandan troops were present in Goma, further raising tensions.
Skirmishes and Rising Tensions at the Border
Clashes between Congolese and Rwandan troops have also been reported along the border, with five civilians killed and 25 others seriously wounded in the Rwandan town of Gisenyi.
Humanitarian Crisis Worsens as Displacement Increases
The conflict has led to a surge in displaced persons, with more than three million people displaced in the region last year alone. As violence continues, thousands more have fled Goma, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
Calls for Peace and International Dialogue
French Foreign Minister Barrot has called for dialogue, urging Rwanda to “put down its weapons” and for peace to return to the region. The international community, including the African Union and UN Security Council, is scheduled to meet to discuss potential responses to the ongoing crisis.
The Future of Goma and the DRC Conflict
The conflict in Goma remains unresolved, and the broader situation in the DRC is in a precarious state. The international community’s response, combined with efforts for peace and stability, will determine the future of Goma and the DRC.
Testimonies from Local Residents and Escalating Tensions
Residents in Goma reported seeing men in Rwandan army uniforms, adding to suspicions of Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict. Further exchanges of fire occurred between Congolese and Rwandan troops, further escalating the tension at the border.
M23 and its Impact on the Region
M23, or the March 23 Movement, is one of many armed groups in eastern DRC seeking control of mineral-rich areas. The group’s actions have been central to the ongoing conflict, exacerbating instability in the region.
