Rebel leader vows to stay in Goma, advance towards Kinshasa

Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance (AFC) rebel coalition, has vowed to maintain control of Goma and continue their march towards the capital, Kinshasa, after capturing the strategic eastern city on January 30.

Speaking at a press conference, Nangaa defended his forces' actions, claiming they were working to establish secure humanitarian corridors to allow displaced people to return to their homes. He said key roads, such as those leading to Rutshuru and Sake, were now secure, facilitating the supply of essential goods to the city.

Despite his assurances, the situation in Goma remains tense. Streets are largely deserted, with military debris and abandoned uniforms scattered across the city. M23 rebels, heavily armed and patrolling in pickup trucks, maintain a strong presence. Nangaa, who also criticized President Felix Tshisekedi’s government, accused it of recklessly militarizing the region and arming untrained civilians.

The rebel advance has exacerbated an already dire humanitarian situation, forcing thousands to flee to neighboring Rwanda. As the M23 moves south toward Bukavu, international pressure is mounting on Rwanda over its alleged support for the rebels. In Kinshasa, protests against Rwanda’s involvement have led to attacks on foreign embassies, further stoking tensions in the region.

The situation remains fluid as rebel forces assert control over more territory, while political and military dynamics continue to shift.

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