The rebel group AFC/M23 are claiming control of Goma’s airspace and have accused foreign military forces collaborating with the Congolese army (FARDC) of deliberate attacks on civilians. Such accusations only put more strain on the already tense situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo where several regions are under conflict.
In a press release dated January 26, 2025, AFC/M23 stated ‘the airspace over the city of Goma is now closed.’ The rebel group claims that the Congolese coalition is using cars for transportation and the Goma airport is being used to ship weapons, making it a target for attacks. The group claims that the airport has become a logistical center for military actions against civilians.
In their statement, AFC/M23 have targeted foreign forces, including troops from Burundi (FNDB) and the Southern African Development Community (SAMIDRC) and even private military companies (MPC) such as Ajemira to have intensified the conflict without reason. AFC/M23 has requested an immediate end to civilian attacks and the reconciling foreigners.
Escalating Clashes Around Goma
The announcement comes amid intensified fighting between AFC/M23 and the FARDC, which is supported by allied forces including SAMIDRC, Burundian troops, the United Nations peacekeeping mission MONUSCO, and militias such as the FDLR and Wazalendo. Recent reports suggest that AFC/M23 has successfully ousted government forces from several key territories in the vicinity of Goma, the regional capital of North Kivu Province.
On January 25, AFC/M23 issued an ultimatum, giving FARDC and its allies 48 hours to surrender. The rebels warned that failure to comply would lead to heightened hostilities.
Global Reaction and Humanitarian Effects
These developments have raised international concern, resulting in nations such as Germany, the United Kingdom, France and the United States to encourage their citizens to vacate Goma for safer destinations. These evacuations reflect the deepening apprehension of the rampant violence and the humanitarian crisis that is already present in the region deepening.
Ongoing fighting has resulted in the displacement of thousands of civilians, worsening the humanitarian situation already present in eastern Congo. It is further reported that the humanitarian agencies are appealing for a ceasefire that is immediately followed by unrestricted access to the most affected civilians.
The international community has once again appealed for a peaceful settlement as the crisis continues. However, resolving this ceasefire is proving to be a herculean task when both parties refuse to budge from their standpoints. The closure of Goma’s airspace by AFC/M23 is indicative of an worrying intensification of the conflict and it puts the stability of the greater great lake region at risk.
