Tragedy struck two camps for displaced people in eastern Congo's North Kivu province on Friday, resulting in the deaths of at least 12 individuals, including children. The United Nations, local officials, and an aid group confirmed the devastating attacks. The U.N. condemned the bombings as a severe violation of human rights and international humanitarian law, potentially constituting a war crime.
The assaults targeted Lac Vert and Mugunga camps near Goma, the provincial capital of North Kivu. The Congolese army spokesperson attributed the attacks to the rebel group M23, allegedly linked to Rwanda. However, the M23 rebels denied involvement and instead accused Congolese forces.
Reports indicated that more than 20 individuals sustained injuries in the bombings, with Save The Children present at one of the camps during the tragic incident. The aid group described the chaos that ensued, with numerous women and children among the injured, while the exact death toll remained uncertain.
President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo, who was abroad at the time, decided to return home following the bombings. Tshisekedi has long accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda vehemently denies. French President Emmanuel Macron recently urged Rwanda to cease its backing of the rebel group during a joint press conference with Tshisekedi in Paris.
The attacks came on the heels of the M23 rebels seizing the strategic mining town of Rubaya, known for its tantalum deposits crucial for smartphone production. This development raised concerns about the exploitation of valuable minerals in the region, with Congo's government questioning tech giant Apple about the presence of 'blood minerals' in its supply chain.
The conflict in eastern Congo, which has persisted for decades, has led to a dire humanitarian crisis. Over 100 armed groups are embroiled in the region's violence, primarily vying for land and control of lucrative mines. The widespread violence has displaced approximately 7 million people, many of whom lack access to essential aid services.
Efforts are underway to address the escalating crisis, with calls for all parties involved to uphold human rights and adhere to international humanitarian law. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments expected as authorities work to stabilize the volatile region.
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