Congo Faces Humanitarian Crisis After Rebels Capture Goma

Following the capture of Goma by M23 rebels, a ceasefire was declared, prompting urgent efforts to bury nearly 2,000 victims of the recent fighting, which resulted in around 900 confirmed deaths and almost 3,000 injuries, according to varying sources. Humanitarian workers, including those from the International Committee of the Red Cross, are struggling to manage overflowing morgues and limited burial space amidst concerns of disease due to the rapid decomposition of bodies. Witnesses describe harrowing scenes, including families affected by violence, with one resident reporting the death of a child and injuries to others from shrapnel. The conflict in eastern Congo has historical roots in ethnic tensions and competition over resources, with Rwanda accused of supporting the M23 rebels. As the situation stabilizes, fears remain over potential escalation involving regional powers. The presence of mercenaries and foreign troops further complicates the humanitarian crisis in the area.