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M23 fighters in DRC have been closing in on Goma, a major city in Eastern Congo. We are distressed by the news that, as of this morning, Goma is now under the control of this Rwandan backed militia group.
“This morning at 4am, the rebels have taken Goma town after a high fighting between M23 and loyal army of government. We have received, in Bukavu, many many displaced people. Some sleeping out, some sleeping in school and others in the church. Here at my house, yesterday, we have received displaced people children, women and men: 416 people. We have not nothing to help them; just to welcome them.” Bishop Bahati
Bukavu is now cut off from Goma as all boats across Lake Kivu have been stopped, this has implications for food, medicine and safe movement. Bishop Bahati asks for our prayers and help, they are expecting M23 to arrive in Bukavu within the next two to three days.
Things are still calm in Butembo, but very tense. Bishop Isesomo, North Kivu says:
“We are expecting the M23 to come to Butembo with fighting. But there is nothing we can do, there is nowhere to go. We will stay in our homes and wait.”
Even though Kindu is the furthest away of our partners, Archbishop Masimango says that no one is going outside; doors are locked and families stay inside afraid of what is coming.
The picture in Goma is already serious. Madame Claudaline Desire and her family have been without power or water for one week now and their food supplies are dwindling. When we asked how we could help, she said there is nothing that can be done – only that “your prayers will save us”. We are yet to hear from others who we know in Goma.
Please pray for CMSI partners in Eastern Congo.
We are planning an opportunity to pray together on zoom in the coming days. Watch our social media for information.
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