Goma, often regarded as the capital of North Kivu province, is experiencing a newfound sense of peace following recent battles that saw the M23 movement defeat the Congolese government forces and their allies, including FDLR, Wazalendo, Burundian troops, South African forces, and Romanian mercenaries. For the first time in many years, residents of Goma can sleep soundly, move around freely at night, and live without fear.
The Meaning of ‘Nzambe’ and ‘Wananzambe’
The word Nzambe is derived from Lingala and means “God.” It is frequently used in Congolese songs and has also become a term used to refer to the people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as Wananzambe or Bananzambe.
Residents near this area recounted that on Tuesday, the last holdout of government forces was at the Katindo military base in downtown Goma. Camp Katindo served as the final command post for Wazalendo militias and the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) before they were overpowered.
By the weekend, M23 movement had taken full control of Camp Katindo, and they were the ones maintaining security at its entrance. Signs of heavy fighting were evident, including a burned military truck loaded with ammunition.
Goma’s Stade de l’Unité, one of the city’s largest stadiums, also witnessed intense combat. However, aside from bullet marks on its walls, there is little physical evidence of the fierce battle that took place there.
Further into the city, on the road leading to Goma International Airport, M23movement were seen patrolling the area. In Bilele market, they were moving freely among civilians, who waved at them in greeting.
The tour also led to the UN peacekeeping mission’s bases in Goma, including those hosting Uruguayan and Senegalese troops. These forces continue their regular operations despite the changing security situation.
Reports indicate that at least 2,100 Congolese soldiers sought refuge at MONUSCO bases when the fighting intensified. Their fate remains uncertain whether they will surrender to M23, flee to Rwanda like some of their colleagues, or face other consequences.
Near the airport, Red Cross workers were searching for possible casualties from the intense clashes between M23 and government forces, who had heavily fortified their positions in the area before being driven out.
Currently, Goma International Airport is non-operational, and M23 controls its premises. However, civilians passing by the airport interact with the fighters freely.
Goma’s Economic and Social Landscape
Goma covers an area of 75.72 square kilometers (about 7,572 hectares) and has a population of approximately two million, living in densely packed neighborhoods. The city’s economy is largely driven by small-scale trade, roadside boutiques, fishing, and mineral extraction.
With the return of stability, these economic activities have resumed as usual.
M23 leaders recently announced that after securing Goma, their military campaign will extend to other regions, ultimately reaching Kinshasa with the goal of overthrowing President Félix Tshisekedi’s government. They accuse his administration of oppressing the Congolese people, particularly the Tutsi community, many of whom have been forced into exile in neighboring countries, including Rwanda.
