### Goma and Bukavu: the echo of the bruised cities under the occupation of the M23
In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, the cities of Goma and Bukavu, recently fallen under the influence of the M23 rebellion, are found in an alarming socio-economic situation. The months that have passed since the start of the occupation recall a period of stagnation and suffering, where hope for a return to normality seems to fade. From protest marches to calls for peaceful dialogue, life in these formerly vibrant metropolises now comes down to a daily struggle for survival.
### something agony
The observation is clear: the economy of Goma and Bukavu collapses under the weight of the war. With closed banks and financial institutions, the monetary flow is largely interrupted. For residents – mainly merchants – lack of access to financial services not only deprives small entrepreneurs of their ability to reinvent themselves, but also families of an income essential for their subsistence. According to a study conducted by Fatshimetrics, the number of commercial transactions fell 65% compared to the previous year, illustrating the devastating impact of political instability on the local economy.
The scarcity of money in circulation contributes to the increase in prices of basic necessities, thus exacerbating precariousness. This phenomenon is reminiscent of the economic crisis of 2005, when regional instability had also undermined these cities. However, the current scale of economic disruption and insecurity far exceeds historical historical, illustrating the fragility of an already weakened social fabric.
#### A population in distress
The consequences of this instability go beyond the simple economic sphere. The population of Goma and Bukavu, which count nearly 2 million and 1.5 million inhabitants respectively, is in the grip of a feeling of abandonment. The loss of purchasing power, coupled with a galloping inflation of the prices of essential foodstuffs, leads to a deterioration of public health and food security. Testimonies collected from the inhabitants reveal poignant scenes of families emptied of their resources, forced to resort to survival practices such as the exchange of goods, a return to an almost barter system, which recalls the periods of great economic upheavals.
### The humanitarian challenge
With already limited humanitarian access, the occupation of the M23 aggravates an already critical humanitarian crisis. NGOs are struggling to provide aid which, even if it manages to penetrate these areas, is often insufficient. The figures include alarmism: according to the UN reports, more than 5 million Congolese are moved due to conflicts in the East, and this dynamic is strengthened every day every day. Children, in particular, are the most affected, with vertiginously rising malnutrition rates, strengthening the urgent need for both local and international action.
### The diplomatic field and the quest for peace
On the diplomatic scene, the summit between presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame in Doha illustrates a tenuous hope in this ocean of despair. The commitment of the two heads of state for an unconditional ceasefire is an attempt to restore peace, but reality on the ground suggests that lasting solutions must be sought beyond simple declarations.
Thus, a more holistic approach, involving not only Congolese and Rwandan political actors but also regional organizations (such as CIRGL) and actors of civil society, is essential to establish peace and stability in the region. It becomes imperative to integrate local voices into the decision -making process to ensure that the basic needs of populations are at the heart of discussions, rather than external strategic interests.
### Conclusion
Goma and Bukavu, carried away in the torments of the M23, are due to face an uncertain future. While peace talks continue and politicians seek solutions, it is crucial to keep the light on the human tragedy that takes place. The resilience of local populations, their ability to endure and adapt, although admirable, should not replace the responsibility of the international community to ensure their protection and support. The resolution of this crisis can only be done by integrating a strong human dimension on any diplomatic initiative, in order to restore dignity and future to the inhabitants of these bruised cities.