Steward Muhindo is an activist with LUCHA (Lutte pour le changement), a non-violent, non-partisan civic movement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). He spoke to CIVICUS about the conflict in the east of the country.
Steward Muhindo is an activist with LUCHA , a non-violent, non-partisan civic movement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo .Steward Muhindo is an activist with LUCHA , a non-violent, non-partisan civic movement in the Democratic Republic of the Congo . He spoke to CIVICUS about the conflict in the east of the country.
Even before the city was taken, this situation led to a massive influx of displaced people, almost doubling Goma's population, which previously stood at around two million. This sudden growth put enormous pressure on local resources and made it extremely difficult to access essential services such as drinking water, food and healthcare. The M23's entry into Goma exacerbated the crisis, exposing civilians to increased violence and a rapid deterioration in living conditions.
This situation forces the Congolese government to focus its resources on the fight against the M23, putting on hold military operations against other active armed groups. This is keeping the DRC in a state of perpetual instability, preventing a sustainable peace process and hampering its socio-economic development. What's more, the conflict is fuelling a climate of mistrust and hatred between populations, with lasting consequences for social cohesion and the political future of the region.
It is also essential to take care of the people displaced around Goma. The destruction of the camps has left many of them homeless. It is imperative to locate them, regroup them and quickly provide the assistance they need. This humanitarian response should also extend beyond Goma. Thousands of displaced people are wandering without adequate assistance in the Lubero, Masisi, Nyiragongo and Rutshuru districts.
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