**Crisis in Goma: Residents and War Displaced Struggle with Economic Hardship Before New Year’s Eve**
As the New Year approaches, the residents of Goma are facing significant challenges in celebrating the upcoming festivities. A surge in food prices and other essential items has made it difficult for many families to gather the necessary means to mark the end of the year. This economic crisis has been exacerbated by the aggression of war imposed on the DRC by Rwanda under the guise of the M23. The situation is even more dire for the thousands of displaced individuals living in camps in and around Goma.
**Rising Prices Create Struggles in Goma**
In the Kituku market located in the Kyeshero neighborhood, prices for livestock, particularly cows, have soared. What used to be a cow sold for $600 to $700 is now being negotiated at $1,000 or more. Despite the steep increase, numerous buyers are flocking to purchase meat for the celebrations. Members of village savings and credit associations are also pooling resources to share cows bought with contributions made throughout the year.
“This Tuesday morning, there were few cows in Kituku. Smaller cows are being offered at prices ranging between $700 and $800. Many people are waiting for new arrivals expected from Masisi. This indicates not only a crisis but also a significant price hike. Some members of the village savings and credit associations and other individuals collected their meat on Monday. There was a lot of excitement,” shared a butcher from the Kyeshero neighborhood.
**Resilience Amidst Crisis**
Despite the hardships, a festive spirit persists among some residents. “The festive atmosphere is here. Even if people complain about the crisis, several cows were slaughtered yesterday. Everyone wants to celebrate at all costs. Despite the war, there are people who will celebrate. That is also the resilience of the people of Goma,” expressed Kahindo Espérance, a homemaker seen shopping for provisions for the festivities.
**Challenges for Displaced Individuals and Vulnerable Groups**
In the displaced camps, the situation is dire. Those who fled their villages due to the war lack everything needed to celebrate the New Year, as was the case at Christmas. Assistance, though provided by well-meaning individuals, remains inadequate to allow for a proper celebration. The displaced individuals once again call for an end to the war to enable their return to their communities.
Additionally, other groups such as hospitalized patients and prisoners will not be able to celebrate the New Year joyfully. These vulnerable populations also require special attention from benefactors.
The city of Goma is cut off from its main supply areas like Masisi and Rutshuru due to ongoing clashes with the M23, making life particularly challenging for the city’s two million residents. The situation is further compounded by the dangers in Lake Kivu, especially following the Merdi boat accident.
As the New Year approaches, the people of Goma are grappling with economic hardships and the impacts of war, with various communities facing unique challenges in celebrating the upcoming festivities. In the face of adversity, the resilience and determination of the residents shine through as they strive to find ways to mark the end of the year despite the obstacles they face.