The Democratic Republic of Congo’s health ministry reported on Saturday that morgues in Goma and surrounding areas were holding 773 bodies as of January 30, following a recent offensive by Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. The already overcrowded morgues are now overflowing, with bodies left in the streets. Between January 26 and 30, 2,880 people were also reported wounded.
M23 rebels, primarily composed of ethnic Tutsi fighters, captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, on Tuesday. The city, rich in gold, coltan, and tin deposits, has long been a hotspot for armed conflict. The rebels moved toward Bukavu in South Kivu but were slowed by Congolese troops, supported by Burundi’s military, by Friday.
The fighting has intensified an ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. Thousands of people fleeing the violence have sought refuge in Goma. Humanitarian organizations have struggled to provide assistance, with hospitals overwhelmed and a shortage of medical supplies, ambulances, and body bags. Medecins Sans Frontieres (Doctors Without Borders) reported running low on medical stock and halting its work in displacement camps. The World Food Programme evacuated its staff and paused activities. Security concerns continue to limit access to parts of the city.
On Saturday, life in Goma began to return to normal in some areas. Power and water, which had been cut off for days, were partially restored. Markets opened, though food remained scarce. Schools were set to resume, and displaced individuals were allowed to return home as roads reopened. However, many refugees remained uncertain about their safety and stayed in the camps.
Fighting appeared to stall in the region after Congolese forces pushed back the rebels. The army regained control of key villages such as Mukwija, Shanje, Numbi, and Nyamasasa in Kalehe territory, halfway between Goma and Bukavu. Residents of towns like Kavumu reported a return to daily life.
Burundi, which shares borders with Rwanda and Congo, has bolstered Congolese forces in the area. On Friday, Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye warned of retaliation against any Rwandan encroachment. Rwanda’s Foreign Minister, Olivier Nduhungirehe, denied allegations of supporting M23 and countered that Burundi was attempting to destabilize Rwanda.
