Conflict intensifies in eastern DR Congo

Fierce fighting rages on in the Democratic Republic of Congo city
of Goma, as M23 rebels and government forces exchange fire


MARCH 23 (M23) MOVEMENT

One of about 100 armed factions
vying for foothold in mineral-rich
eastern DRC

Rwandan-backed group consists
primarily of ethnic Tutsis who failed
to integrate into Congolese army

Led major insurgency against
DRC government in 2012, took up
arms again in 2022. Group estimated
to have 6,500 fighters


DEM. REP. OF CONGO
Kinshasa
Goma
500km
310 miles


Jan 27-28, Goma: M23 rebels claim
control of city, but reportedly facing
pockets of resistance from army and
pro-government militias

Mount Nyiragongo
Direction of M23 advance
Sake 
DEM. REP. OF CONGO
Keshero
Munigi
RWANDA
GOMA
Bulenga
Goma International Airport
Gisenyi
LAKE KIVU
Port
“Great Barrier” border crossing
5km 3 miles

UN experts estimate
up to 4,000 Rwandan
forces are fighting
alongside M23


Latest rebel advance has forced
thousands to flee Goma – city of two
million people is vital humanitarian
aid hub for the region
 
UN and global powers fear conflict
could spiral into regional war similar
to those of 1996-1997 and 1998-2003
that killed millions


Sources: Associated Press, Institute for the Study of War, Reuters
© GRAPHIC NEWS