Life in Rubavu amid M23's push to capture neighboring Goma #rwanda #RwOT

On January 23, 2025, M23 announced plans to take control of Goma, claiming its mission is to liberate the Congolese people, particularly Rwandophones, whom the group alleges have faced long-standing persecution.

This is not the first time M23 has targeted Goma. In 2012, the group briefly controlled the city before relinquishing it after peace talks in Kampala, Uganda. Today, Goma's over two million residents live in fear, uncertain if history is about to repeat itself.

Tensions soared following the reported death of North Kivu Governor Maj Gen Peter Cirimwami, who succumbed to gunshot wounds allegedly inflicted by M23.

The DRC government has confirmed his death. A neighbor of the late governor told IGIHE that rumors of his demise had circulated before the official announcement, noting he hadn't seen the governor for a week despite previously seeing him daily.

Fear has gripped Goma, and many residents anticipate an escalation in the conflict. Since M23's announcement, border crossings between Rwanda and Goma have significantly decreased. At both Petite Barrière and Grande Barrière, fewer people are making the journey.

Yakubu Babu, a trader from Rubavu's Majengo neighborhood who crosses into Goma daily to sell clothes, described the situation: 'You know how it is during wartime. People are scared. Some have stopped working altogether, while others cross cautiously. The traffic to Goma has definitely decreased.'

Another trader, Fabrice Nkundababyeyi, who uses a wheelchair to transport goods, shared similar concerns. He noted that Rwandans entering Goma risk harassment by FARDC soldiers and local porters.

Despite the uncertainty, some services in Goma, such as banking and air travel, remain operational. However, schools and other institutions have been disrupted.

A power blackout on January 24, caused by fighting between M23 and FARDC, has further unsettled residents. The clash damaged the Kibumba-Goma electricity line, plunging the city into darkness.

Kanku Jojo, a young man from Goma traveling through Rwanda en route to Uganda for studies, spoke about the situation back home: 'These days, things are very tense. People are scared and unsure of what to do. Those who can afford to leave have already started fleeing.'

Another Goma resident, Baba, added, 'Goma feels like a war zone. The conflict is terrifying.'

Intense fighting continues in Sake, about 20 kilometers from Goma, as the city braces for what may come. While M23's timeline for capturing Goma remains uncertain, the residents live in constant fear, unsure of what the future holds.