Kinshasa, DRC – President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to address the nation today for the first time since the fall of Goma to M23 rebels, according to an announcement by the national broadcaster RTNC.
AfricaHeadline Reports Team
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The speech comes amid heightened tensions, as the rebel group—reportedly supported by Rwandan forces—now controls almost the entire city, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
The Congolese government has condemned the actions of Rwanda, labelling them a “declaration of war” while reaffirming its commitment to preventing further bloodshed in Goma.
The conflict has triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, with the United Nations estimating that over 500,000 people have been displaced since January. Meanwhile, Rwandan envoy Vincent Karega suggested that M23 may continue advancing beyond Goma, potentially towards South Kivu and even Kinshasa, should negotiations with Kinshasa fail.
As diplomatic efforts falter, a planned summit led by Kenya to mediate the crisis faces uncertainty, with Tshisekedi reportedly refusing to participate.
Observers warn that while M23’s ambitions may be grand, the vast and complex security landscape of the DRC makes a complete takeover unlikely. Nonetheless, regional tensions continue to mount, with fears of an extended conflict threatening stability across the Great Lakes region.
