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European Journal of Applied Sciences – Vol. 13, No. 1

Publication Date: February 25, 2025

DOI:10.14738/aivp.131.18302.

Ndomba, M., Trefon, T., & Kabuyaya, N. (2025). The Conflict in Goma: An Analysis of the M23 Rebellion and its Implications.

European Journal of Applied Sciences, Vol - 13(1). 372-375.

Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom

The Conflict in Goma: An Analysis of the M23 Rebellion and its

Implications

Monique Ndomba

School of Human Social Studies,

Atlantic International University pioneer Plaza,

900 FortStreet Mail905 Honolulu, Hi 96813, United States

Theodore Trefon

Royal Museum for Central Africa in Belgium,

Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren, Belgien

Noël Kabuyaya

University of Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo

ABSTRACT

The eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has been a focal point

of conflict for decades, with the recent resurgence of the March 23 Movement (M23)

exacerbating instability. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the M23

rebellion, focusing on its historical context, the capture of Goma, and the ensuing

humanitarian crisis. The study examines the roles of regional actors, particularly

Rwanda, and the international community's response to the escalating conflict.

Through this analysis, the article aims to shed light on thecomplex dynamics at play

and the potential pathways to sustainable peace in the region.

Keywords: Geographical Context, Historical Background, Ethnic Tensions and Militia

Groups, Outbreak of Conflict, Humanitarian Crisis, Impact on Local Populations, Role of

the International Community, Political Dynamics, Current Situation, Prospects for Peace

and Stability.

INTRODUCTION

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), endowed with vast natural resources, has

paradoxically been marred by persistent conflict, especially in its eastern provinces. The city of

Goma, strategically located on the border with Rwanda, has frequently been at the epicenter of

these upheavals. In early 2025, Goma once again became a battleground as the M23 rebel group

seized control, marking a significant escalation in the region's protracted conflicts. This article

delves into the origins and evolution of the M23 rebellion, the factors contributing to the fall of

Goma, and the broader implications forregional stability and humanitarian conditions.

HISTORICAL CONTEXT OF THE M23 REBELLION

The M23 rebellion traces its roots to the aftermath of the Second Congo War (1998–2003), a

conflict that drew in multiple African nations and resulted in immense human suffering.

Following the war, various armed groups emerged, with the National Congress for the Defense

of the People (CNDP) being one of the most prominent. Composed mainly of Tutsi fighters, the

CNDP cited the protection of Tutsi communities in eastern DRC as its primary motive.

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Ndomba, M., Trefon, T., & Kabuyaya, N. (2025). The Conflict in Goma: An Analysis of the M23 Rebellion and its Implications. European Journal of

Applied Sciences, Vol - 13(1). 372-375.

URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/aivp.131.18302

In 2009, a peace agreement was brokered, leading to the integration of CNDP fighters into the

Congolese national army (FARDC). However, by 2012, dissatisfaction grew among former

CNDP members who felt that the DRC government had failed to honor the terms of the

agreement, particularly concerning the protection and rights of Tutsi communities. This

discontent culminated in the formation of the M23 movement, named after the March 23 date

of the 2009 peace accord. The M23 quickly gained notoriety for its military prowess, capturing

Goma in November 2012. International pressure and internal divisions led to the group's

decline by 2013, with many fighters fleeing to neighboring countries. However, reports in 2022

indicated a resurgence of M23 activities, culminating in their recent offensive in 2025.

THE CAPTURE OF GOMA IN 2025

In January 2025, the M23 launched a renewed offensive in North Kivu province, rapidly

advancing towards Goma. Despite the presence of FARDC troops and United Nations

peacekeepers, the rebels seized control of the city. The fall of Goma not only represented a

significant strategic victory for the M23 but also underscored the vulnerabilities of the

Congolese state apparatus and the limitations of international peacekeeping efforts.

The capture of Goma has far-reaching implications. Economically, the city serves as a

commercial hub, and its loss disrupts trade and livelihoods. Politically, the event challenges the

legitimacy of the DRC government and raises questions about its capacity to maintain territorial

integrity. Moreover, the occupation exacerbates ethnic tensions, particularly between Tutsi and

other communities, leading to fears of retaliatory violence and further fragmentation.

HUMANITARIAN IMPACT

The renewed conflict has precipitated a dire humanitarian crisis. According to the United

Nations, the recent clashes have resulted in at least 900 fatalities, with thousands more

displaced.

Figure 1: Displaced population

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European Journal of Applied Sciences (EJAS) Vol. 13, Issue 1, February-2025

Figure 2: People receiving medicare

Humanitarian organizations have reported widespread looting, and the disruption of essential

services has heightened the risk of disease outbreaks, including cholera and measles. The

displacement crisis is particularly acute, with many seeking refuge in overcrowded camps

lackingadequate sanitation and medical care. The international community has expressed deep

concern over the deteriorating situation. The G7 foreign ministers have called for the

establishment of safe humanitarian corridors to facilitate the delivery of aid and have urged all

parties to return to negotiations. Despite these appeals, challenges persist in ensuring the safety

of aid workers and reaching affected populations.

INTERNATIONAL RESPONSE

The international community's response to the crisis has been multifaceted. While there have

been condemnations of the M23's actions and calls for ceasefires, tangible interventions have

been limited. The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic

of the Congo (MONUSCO) has faced criticism for its inability to prevent the fall of Goma and

protect civilians. Western nations, particularly the United States and the European Union, have

been urged to leverage their influence over Rwanda to curtail its support for the M23. However,

Rwanda's strategic importance in the region and its contributions to peacekeeping missions

elsewhere complicate these diplomatic efforts. The African Union and regional bodies have

called for dialogue and the deployment of additional forces to stabilize the situation, but the

effectiveness of these measures remains to be seen.

CONCLUSION

The ongoing conflict in Goma underscores the persistent instability in the eastern Democratic

Republic of Congo (DRC) and the deep-rooted geopolitical tensions shaping the region. The

resurgence of the M23 rebellion and its capture of Goma in 2025 highlight the fragility of peace

efforts and the complex interplay of local, national, and international actors. The humanitarian

crisis that hasemerged in the wake of the violence—marked by mass displacement, human

rights abuses, and deteriorating living conditions—demands urgent intervention.