Widespread protests in the Congolese capital have spiraled into violence, with demonstrators looting and setting fire to several embassies, including those of Rwanda, France, Belgium, Kenya, and the United States. The unrest has left residents in a state of panic, disrupting daily life and forcing many to take precautions.
“Parents haven’t been sending their children to school since the protest on January 28,” said Isaac Belesi, a teacher at Boboto Jesuit College, one of the few schools still open. “Out of the 41 students in my class, only three showed up on January 30.”
Floribert Lusamba, a father of four, echoed these concerns. “Until the situation in Goma turns favorable, and the authorities can reassure us, I’d rather keep my kids at home,” he said.
Lusamba fears that “another uprising could break out at any moment,” especially after police used tear gas to disperse previous demonstrations.
The climate of fear has also affected religious institutions. In the Gombe district, activities at the Sacred Heart Parish have been canceled.
“We had meetings scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, but we haven’t held any activities this week,” said parishioner Pierrette Manwombi.
The disruption extends to other community institutions. Researcher Junior Mwamba noted that “libraries, cultural centres, and community restaurants associated with religious groups haven’t opened their doors to the public since January 28.”
The unrest comes amid deepening political and military tensions. On January 30, the M23 rebel group declared its intention to push south toward Kinshasa, over 2,600 kilometers from Goma. In response, President Félix Tshisekedi vowed strong action.
“Make no mistake: the Democratic Republic of the Congo will not be humiliated or crushed. We will fight, and we will prevail,” Tshisekedi declared in a late-night televised address, promising a “vigorous and coordinated response” against what he called “terrorists.”
Political analyst Christopher Pambi believes uncertainty over the country’s political future is fueling public panic. “Goma and the broader North Kivu region are not only rich in biodiversity but also in minerals.
“The fact that this area has long been coveted by neighboring countries and the West was already problematic; now, its control falling under Rwanda is a profound disappointment for many Congolese,” he explained.
Pambi added that the anger is directed both at the international community, which many feel has failed to hold Rwanda accountable for alleged interference, and at local authorities, who have yet to find a lasting solution to a conflict that has persisted for three decades.
Boluwatife Enome
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