Rwandan Reinforcements Surrounding Goma: Urgent Security Council Action Required
The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has taken a dangerous turn as armed group M23, backed by the Rwandan Defense Forces (RDF), has received reinforcements and supplies to fortify their strategic positions around the city of Goma. During an emergency session of the United Nations Security Council this Sunday, it was reported that the M23 has deployed heavy presence near Sake, just 25 kilometers west of Goma, and is advancing towards Munigi, a mere 9 kilometers north of the city.
Escalating Tensions and Humanitarian Impact
This military escalation has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region. Roads are blocked, and the Goma airport is now unusable for humanitarian evacuations as the M23 has declared the airspace closed. Thousands of civilians are fleeing the fighting, seeking refuge in Goma despite the precarious conditions.
Bintou Keita’s Plea to the Security Council
Bintou Keita, the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General in the DRC, warned the United Nations Security Council that the situation in North Kivu is critical. “The M23 has doubled the territory it controls compared to 2012, consolidating its occupation in North Kivu and advancing towards South Kivu,” she stated. Keita emphasized the urgent need for international action to protect civilian populations, humanitarian workers, and UN personnel. “We are trapped. It is imperative that the Security Council acts now,” she added.
Military Response and UN Measures
In line with its mandate to protect civilians, MONUSCO has increased its support to the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) through intelligence operations, tactical planning exercises, and military deployments. Operation “Springbok 3” has been activated, involving a quick reaction force, a rapid deployment battalion, an artillery battery, and special forces units.
The UN has also temporarily relocated non-essential staff from Goma to ensure their safety while maintaining essential operations in the province.
Call for Immediate Action
Keita called on the M23 to immediately cease all hostile actions and withdraw from occupied areas. She also urged the Rwandan Defense Forces to halt their support for the armed group and leave Congolese territory. Keita reiterated the importance of respecting the ceasefire agreement and called for a resumption of negotiations within the framework of the Luanda process.