Title: The alarming conditions of detention in the central prison of Goma in the DRC
Introduction :
The central prison in Goma, capital of North Kivu in the Democratic Republic of Congo, faces alarming detention conditions. Photos showing detainees crammed into tents and bodies being evacuated were released, revealing a lack of food, medical care and deplorable overcrowding. In this article, we explore the testimonies of our observers on the critical situation of this prison as well as the reasons underlying this reality.
An overwhelming observation of overpopulation and malnutrition:
The central prison of Goma, initially designed to accommodate 350 prisoners, currently faces a prison population of more than 3,600 prisoners, more than ten times its planned capacity. This overpopulation leads to a shortage of resources, especially when it comes to food. A prison employee reports that malnutrition, associated with tuberculosis, is responsible for 90% of recent deaths. The most vulnerable prisoners are those who have no outside assistance, because the prison does not have the financial means to feed all the prisoners.
Deplorable detention conditions:
Testimonies from our observers indicate inhumane detention conditions. Detainees are crowded into tents, often in poor health and without access to necessary medical care. Family visits are also costly, depriving many inmates of outside support.
A vicious circle of prolonged preventive detentions:
According to a report from the UN mission in the DRC, 81% of detainees at Goma central prison were in preventive detention last May. Some died before even being judged. Long waits for magistrates to process cases contribute to this reality, with delays that can last months or even years.
The armed conflict in the region:
The critical situation in the central prison of Goma is aggravated by the context of persistent war in the North Kivu region. In addition to the lack of resources allocated by the State, armed clashes and instability contribute to prison overcrowding. Longer term solutions must be considered to remedy this situation.
Conclusion :
Goma central prison in the Democratic Republic of Congo faces alarming detention conditions, characterized by overcrowding, malnutrition and lack of access to medical care. The testimonies of our observers highlight the need for urgent action to remedy this inhumane situation. It is imperative that measures be taken to guarantee the fundamental rights of prisoners and improve living conditions in Congolese prisons.