Monday, January 27, 2025
Fear and Chaos in Goma as residents are ordered to stay indoors
UN peackeepers loaming around Goma surburbs
The city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, is in a state of uncertainty following heavy fighting between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and armed groups in the outskirts. Loud gunfire and explosions continue to be heard in different parts of the city and nearby Nyiragongo territory, leaving residents fearful.
Many people have chosen to stay indoors as daily activities remain completely disrupted. Some neighborhoods, such as Virunga, Murara (Office), Volcans, and Kahembe, have been heavily impacted, with bullets hitting houses. In the commercial district of Mapendo (Birere), criminals have taken advantage of the chaos, looting abandoned shops and homes.
Residents of the Office neighborhood report that the situation has been tense since the previous day. "Gunfire has been going on since yesterday. We don’t know who is in control of the city, and it’s even difficult to step outside our houses," they said.
A journalist was reportedly injured by gunfire near the Virunga neighborhood, further highlighting the risks faced by the local population. Meanwhile, military movements have been observed along the Goma-Sake road, indicating that the situation remains volatile.
Despite the uncertainty, the Goma branch of the National Radio and Television of Congo (RTNC) is still operational. The station’s provincial director, Tuver Wundi, assured that updates would be provided when circumstances allow.
"RTNC is still running and will share information when it is safe to do so," he stated.
The people of Goma remain anxious as the situation continues to evolve, fearing that the clashes could escalate further.
