Sexual Violence Soars in Goma Amidst Ongoing Conflict, Overwhelming Healthcare System

Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo – Sexual violence has reached alarming levels in Goma, the capital of North Kivu province in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with humanitarian organizations struggling to cope with the escalating crisis. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) reports treating nearly 40,000 women for sexual violence related trauma in 2024 alone, highlighting the devastating impact of ongoing conflict and insecurity on the civilian population.

Increased Insecurity Fuels Crisis

The already precarious situation in Goma has been exacerbated by years of fighting between the Congolese army, allied armed groups, and the M23/Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC). While the original text stated the M23/AFC took control of Goma in January 2025, this is incorrect. The M23 has been actively fighting in the region, threatening Goma but not controlling it. This state of constant threat and displacement has created an environment where sexual violence flourishes.

The heightened insecurity has overwhelmed the already strained healthcare system. Hospitals and clinics are struggling to provide adequate care to the influx of victims, many of whom have been displaced from their homes. The lack of resources, coupled with the fear of further attacks, makes it difficult for survivors to access the medical and psychological support they desperately need.

Displaced Women Face Relentless Threats

Thousands of displaced women and girls are particularly vulnerable. Living in overcrowded shelters or with host families, they face a constant threat of attack. Perpetrators include armed men, but also, disturbingly, members of their own communities or host families, highlighting the breakdown of social structures and the pervasive nature of the violence.

Root Causes and Regional Implications

According to Dr. Fatima Diallo, a researcher specializing in conflict-related sexual violence in the Great Lakes region, the crisis in Goma is rooted in a complex interplay of factors, including poverty, impunity, and the proliferation of weapons. “The ongoing conflict provides a cover for perpetrators, who often act with little fear of being held accountable,” Dr. Diallo explains. “Furthermore, the lack of economic opportunities and the breakdown of social safety nets make women and girls more vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.”

The situation in Goma also has significant regional implications. The DRC has long been plagued by conflict and instability, with neighboring countries often implicated in supporting various armed groups. The violence in eastern DRC has displaced millions of people, creating a humanitarian crisis that extends beyond the country's borders. The failure to address the root causes of the conflict and the impunity enjoyed by perpetrators of sexual violence risks further destabilizing the region.

Historical Context of Sexual Violence in the DRC

Sexual violence has been a persistent feature of conflict in the DRC for decades. During the Second Congo War (1998-2003), all sides of the conflict used sexual violence as a weapon of war, with devastating consequences for women and girls. Despite efforts to prosecute perpetrators and provide support to survivors, sexual violence remains a widespread problem.

The legacy of past conflicts, coupled with the ongoing instability, has created a culture of impunity that makes it difficult to address the issue effectively. The Congolese government, with the support of international partners, has taken steps to strengthen the legal framework and improve access to justice for survivors. However, much more needs to be done to address the underlying causes of the violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

Call for Increased Humanitarian Assistance

Humanitarian organizations are calling for increased international assistance to address the crisis in Goma. In addition to providing medical and psychological support to survivors, there is a need for greater efforts to prevent sexual violence and address the underlying causes of the conflict. This includes strengthening the rule of law, promoting economic development, and empowering women and girls.

“The international community has a responsibility to stand in solidarity with the people of Goma and provide the support they need to rebuild their lives,” says Jean-Pierre Mutombo, a Congolese human rights activist. “This requires a comprehensive approach that addresses not only the immediate needs of survivors but also the long-term challenges of conflict and instability.”

Addressing the crisis in Goma requires a multifaceted approach that combines humanitarian assistance, security sector reform, and efforts to promote peace and reconciliation. Without a concerted effort to address the root causes of the conflict and the impunity enjoyed by perpetrators of sexual violence, the cycle of violence will continue, and the people of Goma will continue to suffer.