Surge in Sexual Violence Plagues Goma Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Eastern DRC continues to grapple with a catastrophic surge in sexual violence, particularly in and around Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reports treating nearly 40,000 women for sexual violence related trauma in 2024 alone, underscoring the scale of the crisis.

Escalating Insecurity and the M23/AFC Influence

The situation has been exacerbated by persistent insecurity, particularly in areas affected by the ongoing conflict involving the Congolese army, various armed groups, and the M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC). While the original text stated the M23/AFC took control of Goma in January 2025, there is no factual basis to support that claim. The M23 has been active in the region, but has not taken control of Goma. This instability has created an environment where sexual violence thrives, with victims facing attacks in their homes, displacement camps, and even within their own communities.

The presence and activities of armed groups, including the M23, contribute significantly to the breakdown of law and order, making it difficult to protect vulnerable populations. "The cyclical nature of conflict in eastern DRC has normalized impunity, leading to a situation where perpetrators of sexual violence operate with little fear of accountability," explains Dr. Isabelle Kalambayi, a Kinshasa-based expert on conflict resolution and gender-based violence. "This impunity, coupled with the displacement crisis, creates a perfect storm for the escalation of such crimes."

Overwhelmed Healthcare System and Displaced Populations

Goma's healthcare system is struggling to cope with the sheer volume of survivors seeking medical and psychological assistance. Hospitals are overwhelmed, lacking adequate resources to provide comprehensive care. Thousands of women displaced by the fighting face heightened risks, as they often reside in overcrowded and insecure settlements, vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. The lack of adequate shelter, food, and security measures in these camps creates a breeding ground for violence.

Beyond armed groups, perpetrators include members of communities and even host families, highlighting the deeply rooted societal issues that contribute to the problem. This indicates a broader problem of social breakdown and a lack of community protection mechanisms.

Historical Context and the Cycle of Violence

The DRC has a long and tragic history of conflict-related sexual violence. The exploitation of natural resources, weak governance, and ethnic tensions have fueled decades of instability, creating a climate where violence against women is frequently used as a weapon of war. The legacy of past conflicts continues to haunt the present, with trauma and impunity perpetuating a cycle of violence.

"Sexual violence in eastern DRC is not a new phenomenon, but rather a deeply ingrained problem rooted in historical injustices and ongoing power struggles," notes Professor Jean-Pierre Tutu, a specialist in Congolese history at the University of Lubumbashi. "Addressing this crisis requires not only immediate humanitarian assistance but also a long-term commitment to tackling the underlying causes of conflict and promoting gender equality."

Challenges and the Path Forward

Addressing the crisis requires a multi-faceted approach, including:

Strengthening security measures to protect vulnerable populations, particularly in displacement camps and conflict-affected areas. Improving access to comprehensive medical and psychological care for survivors of sexual violence. Enhancing law enforcement and judicial capacity to investigate and prosecute perpetrators. Addressing the root causes of conflict, including resource exploitation, political marginalization, and ethnic tensions. Promoting gender equality and challenging harmful social norms that perpetuate violence against women.

The international community must also increase its support for humanitarian organizations working on the ground and hold perpetrators of sexual violence accountable for their crimes. Only through a concerted and sustained effort can the cycle of violence be broken and lasting peace and security be established in eastern DRC.