Title: The capture of the town of Shasha by the M23 rebels worsens the humanitarian situation in Goma
Introduction :
Friday February 2, the M23 rebels launched a successful offensive by seizing the town of Shasha, located on the national road linking Goma to Bukavu, the capitals of the provinces of North Kivu and South Kivu in the Republic. Democratic Republic of Congo. This new situation poses a serious supply problem for the city of Goma, already hard hit by violence and massive population displacements.
Blocking of roads:
With the cutting of major roads leading to Goma, the consequences for the population are disastrous. Even motorcycles can no longer pass, according to civil society. Rebel positions are now firmly established to the north, west and south of the city. This situation endangers the supply of Goma, which mainly depended on the national road and the territories of Rutshuru, Masisi and South Kivu. Foodstuffs, such as beans, corn and cassava, came from these regions and the cutting of this supply route plunges Goma into a food crisis.
The impact on prices and population:
The surge in food prices was already a reality since the resurgence of the M23 two years ago. The rebels impose taxes on products transported on the roads they control, which has a direct impact on sales prices. Trucks pay exorbitant sums, ranging from $300 to $700, when passing through areas under rebel control. This situation has repercussions on the prices of food, and it is the population who suffers in the first place. In just fifteen months, the price of a 100 kg bag of beans rose from $80 to $125, leading to an increase in living costs for Goma residents.
Humanitarian consequences:
According to the United Nations, the civilian population is the most affected by this deterioration of security in the DRC, with a record number of nearly 7 million displaced people fleeing the violence. The inhabitants of Rutshuru, who have suffered attacks from the M23 for several years, are forced to leave their homes in search of safety. This humanitarian crisis is worsening with the capture of Shasha, which makes access to humanitarian aid even more difficult for affected populations.
Conclusion :
The capture of the town of Shasha by the M23 rebels has disastrous consequences on the population of Goma, compromising its food supply. Food prices are skyrocketing, making life even more difficult for residents already weakened by violence and forced displacement. This situation highlights the urgency of international action to end this conflict and help civilian populations regain peace and security.