Sexual Violence Soars in Goma Following M23 Occupation, Overwhelming Resources

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – Sexual violence has reached alarming proportions in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, since the M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) took control of the city in January 2025. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reports treating nearly 40,000 women for sexual violence in 2024, a figure that highlights the scale of the crisis and the immense strain on already limited resources.

Escalating Insecurity Fuels Crisis

The M23/AFC's occupation of Goma, a city of over one million residents, followed years of conflict with the Congolese army (FARDC) and affiliated armed groups. While the takeover was intended to establish control, the resulting environment has fostered increased insecurity and a breakdown of law and order. This instability has created a fertile ground for sexual violence, with victims facing attacks in their homes, displacement camps, and even on the streets.

MSF has reported that perpetrators include armed men, but also members of the victims' own communities and even host families, indicating a pervasive culture of impunity and a breakdown of social structures. The sheer volume of cases is overwhelming local hospitals and humanitarian organizations, hindering their ability to provide adequate care and support to survivors.

Displacement and Vulnerability

The ongoing conflict has led to massive displacement, with thousands of women and children forced to flee their homes and seek refuge in overcrowded and under-resourced camps. These displaced populations are particularly vulnerable to sexual violence, as they lack the protection and security that a stable home environment provides.

“Displacement inherently increases vulnerability,” explains Dr. Isabelle Kalenga, a Congolese expert in conflict-related sexual violence. “When families are uprooted and traditional support systems are disrupted, women and girls become more susceptible to exploitation and abuse. The lack of adequate shelter, sanitation, and security in displacement camps further exacerbates the risk.”

A History of Conflict and Impunity

Eastern DRC has a long and tragic history of conflict, fueled by competition for resources and ethnic tensions. Sexual violence has been a recurring feature of these conflicts, often used as a weapon of war to terrorize communities and destabilize the region. The M23 rebellion, which resurfaced in late 2021, is only the latest chapter in this ongoing cycle of violence. The group claims to represent the interests of Congolese Tutsis, a minority group that has faced discrimination and persecution.

The lack of accountability for perpetrators of sexual violence has been a major obstacle to addressing the problem. Impunity remains widespread, with few perpetrators ever brought to justice. This encourages further abuse and undermines efforts to create a culture of respect for women's rights.

The International Response

The international community has condemned the violence in eastern DRC and called for an end to the conflict. The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has a mandate to protect civilians, but its effectiveness has been questioned. Humanitarian organizations are struggling to meet the growing needs of the displaced population, and there is a critical shortage of funding for programs to prevent and respond to sexual violence.

“The international community needs to step up its efforts to support the Congolese government and civil society organizations in addressing the root causes of the conflict and promoting peace and stability,” says Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, a political analyst specializing in Central African affairs. “This includes strengthening the rule of law, promoting good governance, and addressing the grievances of marginalized communities. Without a comprehensive approach, the cycle of violence will continue.”

Looking Ahead

The situation in Goma remains dire, and the future is uncertain. Addressing the crisis of sexual violence requires a multi-faceted approach that includes providing medical and psychosocial support to survivors, strengthening the rule of law, promoting accountability for perpetrators, and addressing the root causes of conflict and instability. The long-term solution lies in establishing a lasting peace and creating a society where women and girls are safe and respected.