Goma, 28 January, 2025 / 10:40 pm (ACI Africa).
The Africa Christian Professionals Forum (ACPF) has called for an end to the escalating violence in Goma in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), noting that the violence has already caused immense destruction and inconceivable suffering among the people.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, January 28, ACPF propose dialogue and immediate action to stop the violence that has reportedly led to widespread displacement and a deteriorating humanitarian situation in the region.
“The escalating violence in Goma has caused tragic loss of life and widespread destruction. We urge all parties to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue to end the suffering of civilians,” ACPF members said.
On Monday, January 27, the Rwandan-backed March 23 Movement (M23) rebels reportedly announced that its forces had taken over the capital of the Eastern Province of the DRC, Goma.
“Rwandan-backed rebels marched into eastern Congo's largest city Goma on Monday, and the U.N. said they were supported by at least some regular Rwandan troops, in the worst escalation of a long-running conflict for more than a decade,” the January 27 Reuters report indicates.