Food Prices in Goma Surge as M23 Rebel Takeover Worsens Crisis
Goma, DR Congo – February 4, 2025
Food prices in Goma, the main city in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), have skyrocketed following last week’s capture by M23 rebels. According to locals and NGO ActionAid, the cost of essential food items has surged by 18% to 160%, leaving many residents struggling to afford basic nutrition.
The sharp rise in prices is attributed to disrupted supply chains and blocked humanitarian aid, further exacerbating an already dire humanitarian crisis. With businesses shut, electricity and water supplies cut, and ongoing displacement, hundreds of thousands of people in the city are at risk of severe hunger.
Dramatic Price Hikes in Local Markets
ActionAid, which gathered data from three of Goma’s main markets—Virunga, Lenine, and Kituku—reported steep increases in the prices of staples such as flour, beans, and cooking oil between January 25 and January 31. These essential goods, once affordable, are now out of reach for many families.
One Goma resident described the struggle: “We can no longer afford even the basics. Prices have doubled or tripled within days, and the situation is getting worse.”
M23 Takeover Sparks Crisis
The crisis began on the night of January 26 when Rwanda-backed fighters from the March 23 Movement (M23) stormed into Goma, declaring the city under their control. Sporadic clashes between the rebels and Congolese forces ensued in the days that followed, plunging the city into chaos. Electricity, water, and internet services were cut off, forcing businesses to close and leaving residents in limbo.
Though power and water have since been partially restored, the city is far from returning to normal. Many essential services remain disrupted, and the scarcity of food supplies continues to drive prices upward.
Humanitarian Implications
ActionAid has warned of a looming hunger crisis if the situation does not improve. The combination of rising prices, insecurity, and restricted access to aid threatens to push thousands of vulnerable families deeper into poverty.
Aid organizations have called for immediate international assistance and increased humanitarian access to prevent the situation from deteriorating further. The ongoing conflict has already displaced thousands of people, creating additional pressure on limited resources in Goma and surrounding areas.
Goma’s Resilience Tested
Despite the grim outlook, residents of Goma remain resilient. “We are used to tough times,” said one market vendor. “But this time feels different. We need peace and support more than ever.”
For now, the city awaits stability as Congolese authorities work to regain control and restore order. International observers are closely monitoring the situation, calling for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis.
Source : Swifteradio.com
