### A New Test for Goma: Between Violence and Economic Instability
In early February 2025, Goma, the capital of the North Kivu province in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is once again under fire from clashes. The looting of the facilities of the Industrial Promotion Fund (FPI) by M23 rebels, supported by the Rwandan army, highlights not only the growing insecurity in the region but also the devastating consequences that such a climate of violence has on the already fragile local economy.
### A Devastating Aggression
The attack, which saw rebel forces break down the front doors and take away a safe containing a considerable sum of money intended for employee bonuses, highlights a destabilization strategy orchestrated by the M23. This group, already suspected of terrorizing the civilian population and looting public companies, appears to have intensified its operations to establish territorial control that is practiced through violence and large-scale crime.
Throughout this year, reports from various international organizations have noted the increase in violent incidents in Goma, 70% of which were attributed to the M23. The current dynamics of insecurity only aggravate the fear felt by managers of public companies, who, according to testimonies, often choose to remain hidden rather than risk their lives trying to run their businesses. This atmosphere of terror hinders not only economic development but also the social life of an entire region.
### Economic Consequences: A Spiral of Deterioration
The FPI, as a central actor in the promotion of industry in Goma, is now reduced to silence. Such aggression is not just an act of looting; It represents a major blow to industrial development efforts in a region that has already suffered the ravages of armed conflict for decades. Local industries, which had hoped for support through innovation and financing, find themselves deprived of a key player.
For comparison, a study conducted by the African Institute for Economic and Social Development in 2022 revealed that insecurity in the region had already led to a 45% drop in foreign investment in recent years. According to local economic expert Dr. Josephine Mbuyi, the current trend could cause this figure to fall even lower: “Already fragile territories like Goma cannot do without stability. Every attack is not simply looting, it is a blow to the confidence of investors, both national and international.”
### The Impact on the Electoral Process
The unstable context in Goma is not limited to public spending and business security. The Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) has also reported similar cases of looting of its own facilities, seriously compromising the ongoing electoral process in the country. Indeed, without a secure environment, the planned elections become a farce, weakening the country’s reputation on the international stage.
Transparent and secure elections are essential for the democratic development of the DRC, and such incidents could reinforce fears of democratic failure. The 2023 elections were already marred by allegations of fraud and violence, and recent events risk deepening voter skepticism towards the institutions.
### Call to Action
Faced with this alarming situation, the international community must respond. The United Nations and the African Union must intensify their efforts to monitor the movements of armed groups and strengthen their support for the DRC. In addition, a mobilization of humanitarian and financial aid is necessary to support the residents of Goma, who are bearing the brunt of this crisis.
It is imperative that sustainable solutions are sought to heal the wounds of past conflicts and restore trust in institutions that must defend the rights and well-being of the Congolese.
### Conclusion
The FPI’s looting is not just an act of delinquency; it is part of a broader history of systematic violence that continues to plague the DRC. The resilience of the Congolese is being tested and requires an effective and united international response. Goma must become a symbol of renewed peace and no longer a theater of looting and terror. It is imperative to act now to break this cycle of impunity and initiate a new era of sustainable development and security.