Violence in Congo-Kinshasa

Rwanda's call: Negotiate peace with M23

Rwanda is urging the Congolese government to begin peace talks with the rebel group M23, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe told Reuters.

- Now that Goma has fallen, a way out is needed, and this is the only remaining solution.

This week, the M23 captured the city of Goma on the border with Rwanda. According to Congo-Kinshasa, as well as a number of Western countries and the UN, it was done with the support of troops from Rwanda.

Congo-Kinshasa President Felix Tshiekedi has previously refused to negotiate directly with the M23, which the government considers a terrorist organization.

Both the M23 and Rwanda deny any cooperation between them.

Insecurity in occupied Goma: “This is not good”

There is great uncertainty in the city of Goma in Congo-Kinshasa after it was taken by the rebel group M23. This is reported by Sky News.

– It is not good for my family. It is not good for me – we do not know what will happen next, a man tells the TV channel's correspondent.

At the same time, rebel forces were met during the day by seemingly spontaneous applause from other Goma residents.

The rebel group M23 is widely believed to be supported by neighboring Rwanda – and the group's successes in the border city of Goma have raised concerns about an escalating conflict. However, this is denied by Willy Ngoma, the M23 spokesman in Goma.

– We are a Congolese army and we are Congolese. We are fighting for justice and for a noble cause. We are not getting any help from Rwanda.