Intensified clashes between M23 rebels and the Congolese army have led to the forced displacement of civilians from the Nzulo camp near Goma in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The camp, which housed thousands of internally displaced persons (IDPs), is now empty as residents flee the advancing violence.
The ongoing conflict, which has lasted for over two decades, involves multiple armed groups fighting for control of the DRC’s mineral-rich eastern regions. Recently, the M23, a rebel group composed mainly of Tutsi fighters, has made significant territorial gains. They have seized control of several strategic towns, including Minova and Masisi, effectively cutting off vital supply routes to Goma, a city that has served as a hub for both military and humanitarian efforts.
As the violence intensifies, the UN reports that more than 237,000 people have been displaced in the region in 2025 alone, deepening the humanitarian crisis. Thousands of civilians have sought refuge in neighboring towns or across the border in Rwanda, while many others remain trapped in areas of heavy fighting.
The escalation of hostilities has brought the region’s fragile security and humanitarian situation to a breaking point. International organizations continue to call for urgent aid and diplomatic intervention to address the dire conditions facing displaced populations in the conflict zone.
