DRC conflict: One year on, Congolese reflect on life in Goma under M23 control

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 02:30:03 +0000

It has been a year since Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized Goma, the largest city in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
While fighting in the city has largely stopped, residents say there has been no real economic recovery.
Banks remain closed, the airport is still shut, and cash circulation is severely limited.
Traders report soaring prices and falling demand, pushing many households into poverty.
Some residents acknowledge improved security and basic services under M23 control.
However, hunger and unemployment remain widespread across Goma.
The UN says ongoing conflict elsewhere in eastern DRC has displaced millions.

Al Jazeera’s Catherine Soi reports.

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