** Goma: visible and invisible scars of war **
The landscape of Goma, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is now marked by indelible scars. While the apparent calm seems to have taken possession of Kahembe avenue, the vestiges of violent clashes between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the militiamen of the M23 are still very present, both in devastated town planning and in the memories of the inhabitants whose life has changed in the space of a few days. The summit planned between the chiefs of staff of the countries of the EAC (community of East Africa) and the SADC (Development Community of Southern Africa), aimed at establishing a “plan of Securing for Goma, “appears to be a glimmer of hope in a bruised table, but leaves reliever questions about the sustainability of peace in this unstable region.
According to UN reports, the current situation is similar to a human tragedy, with nearly 3,000 dead and as many injured in recent fights. This tragic assessment challenges not only on the immediate consequences of the conflict, but also on the long -term effects on a population already heavily affected by decades of violence. On the one hand, the material impact is undeniable, both for families who have lost their homes and for those struggling to provide for their basic necessities. But on the other hand, the psychological cost is just as devastating, leaving invisible traces that may last over the generations.
The stories shared by Amisi, Louise and Guy update a human reality often overshadowed by figures: that of traumatized families, stolen childhood, and broken lives. How many times in the history of armed conflicts are the voices of the victims stifled under the weight of political decisions? The question here is not only to quantify suffering, but to try to grasp its essence, to learn from it, and to find ways towards reconciliation and reconstruction.
Comparative analysis of conflicts in the region shows that instability in DRC is not limited to an isolated phenomenon. It is part of a complex setting where political, economic and ethnic challenges are mixed. A 2022 study revealed that 60 % of armed conflicts in Africa have transnational implications, often exacerbated by the interference of neighboring states. In this context, the achievement of a lasting peace agreement in Goma not only requires security intervention, but also a real commitment to regional economic development and an inclusive dialogue which takes into account the aspirations of the affected populations.
Furthermore, while regional heights are increasing, the experience of the past invites you to reflect on their effectiveness. Conflict resolution, as shown by the Arusha Peace Accords between Burundi and rebel groups, requires a multifactorial approach. This implies a strengthening of the rule of law, the establishment of transitional justice mechanisms and the promotion of disarmament and reintegration programs that take into account the experience of children and women, often the most affected by war.
It is therefore imperative that the planned summit provides concrete and tangible results. Beyond the declarations and the establishment of a security plan, the leaders of the region must be ready to engage in a process of structural transformation, aroused debates on the economic issues which feed the cycle of violence, In particular the control of natural and intangible natural resources in the region, often at the heart of conflicts.
In conclusion, the path to lasting peace in Goma can only be marked out by a sincere commitment, not only in the security ground, but also towards the deep aspirations of local populations. The voice of those who suffer should bring further than the simple statistics of the war; It must become an echo of a need for real peace. This is how we can consider a future where children will not only play on the ruins of a violent past, but in the serenity of a found dignity.