Families of Victims in Congo Mourn Loved Ones Killed in Attacks on Displaced People

Families of the victims of the recent bomb attacks on two displacement camps in eastern Congo gathered in Goma to mourn their loved ones in a heartfelt ceremony on Monday evening. The bombings at the Mugunga and Lac Vert camps claimed the lives of at least 18 people and left 32 others injured, with most of the victims being women and children.

One survivor, Alimeti Kigiho, recounted the harrowing experience of losing his wife and two young children in the attack. “War has taken everything from me,” he lamented, reflecting the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict in the region.

The Congolese army and the rebel group M23 have traded accusations over the bombings, further fueling tensions in the already volatile area. The long-standing conflict in eastern Congo has led to one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises, with over 100 armed groups vying for control of valuable minerals and land, often at the expense of innocent civilians.

The attacks have prompted some residents to consider returning to their homes, despite the persistent dangers that forced them to flee in the first place. Meanwhile, President Felix Tshisekedi has accused neighboring Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda vehemently denies.

As the community mourns the loss of their loved ones, there is a growing sense of frustration towards both local and international authorities for their failure to bring an end to the protracted conflict. “If he is unable to end this war, he should resign,” one youth from Goma expressed, highlighting the urgent need for lasting peace and stability in the region.