The Silent Suffering: Unpacking the Crisis of Sexual Violence in Goma, DR Congo

In the heart of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the vibrant city of Goma stands defiant against a backdrop of turbulence and heart-wrenching strife. Home to over a million resilient souls, Goma is a melting pot of cultures, aspirations, and dreams. Yet, as the sun sets over Lake Kivu, it casts long shadows on the grim reality faced by many—specifically, the rampant sexual violence that has plagued this region. A staggering narrative emerges when one examines the figures: nearly 40,000 women have sought treatment for sexual violence from Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) in 2024 alone. This is not just a statistic; it represents thousands of stories, countless lives, and an urgent call for societal reckoning.

Goma: A City Under Siege

The situation reached a crucial turning point in January 2025, when the M23 rebel group, allied with the Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC), seized control of Goma. This development cast a long shadow on the city and its inhabitants, as years of conflict between armed groups and the Congolese army resulted in a complex and harrowing humanitarian crisis. Despite the shift in power dynamics, the prevalence of sexual violence has continued unabated, raising pertinent questions: Why does violence persist in a city that has experienced such profound upheaval? What societal structures fail to protect its most vulnerable?

The Roots of Violence: A Deep Dive into Causes

At the heart of this crisis lies a web of socio-economic and political factors. Gender inequality, fueled by a culture of impunity, has contributed significantly to the normalized violence against women. Many Congolese women face double jeopardy: not only must they navigate a society steeped in patriarchal norms, but they also contend with the ever-present threat of armed conflict. As renowned local activist Mama Ngoya aptly put it, “In times of war, women become pawns, their bodies used as battlegrounds.”

Furthermore, the lack of infrastructure, limited access to education, and inadequate legal protections exacerbate this dire situation. Many women fear reporting incidents of violence, not only due to societal stigma but also because of the real risk that their assailants may go unpunished. Data from community outreach initiatives reveal that only 5% of sexual violence cases are ever reported, further solidifying the cycle of silence and suffering.

The Healing Process: MSF’s Crucial Role

The work of organizations like Médecins Sans Frontières has been nothing short of heroic. They not only provide medical aid but also serve as a lifeline for psychological recovery through counseling services and support groups. Yet, as their representatives acknowledge, “Healing is more than a medical intervention; it requires community-wide support to break the cycle of violence.”

In an environment where silence reigns, MSF becomes a beacon of hope by creating safe spaces for survivors to share their stories and seek help. They understand that the journey towards healing is arduous but necessary. As the African proverb goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” The path to recovery for Goma lies in collective action, where communities come together to support survivors rather than shun them.

The Role of Dialogue and Future Implications

What can be done to shift the narrative in Goma? One essential answer lies in fostering dialogue—between communities, with local leaders, and within families. Traditional African wisdom teaches us that “the child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” We must ask ourselves: Are we embracing our most vulnerable populations, or are we ignoring their cries for help?

Establishing community forums where conversations around gender equity and violence can take place is vital. Educational programs can illuminate the detrimental impact of gender-based violence on society as a whole. More importantly, empowering women through vocational training and education can shift existing power dynamics. When women thrive, communities flourish, turning the tide against violence.

Facing the Future: Hope Amid Despair

Despite the overwhelming darkness looming over Goma, there remains a flicker of hope. Grassroots organizations are working tirelessly to change attitudes and provide support for survivors. Activists promote campaigns that encourage men to stand as allies in dismantling the structures that allow such violence to occur. Furthermore, international attention on DR Congo continues to grow, with global coalitions pushing for reform.

In the words of renowned social commentator Amani Mwanga, “Change may be slow, but it is coming. The strength of women in Goma is a force that cannot be ignored.” As we reflect on this harrowing crisis, it becomes clear that our collective future hinges on recognizing the struggles faced by Goma’s women. Will we remain passive observers or become active participants in rewriting their narrative?

In Goma, the battle against sexual violence is not merely a local issue; it resonates on a continental scale, highlighting a need for broader reflections on gender, conflict, and resilience across Africa. The world is listening, and the silent anguish of Goma must not go unheard.

Let us actively participate in the call for change, raising our voices in solidarity with vulnerable women everywhere. Their strength is a testament to human resilience, and together we can kindle hope for a brighter future where safety is not a privilege but a right.

As we ponder the complexities of this humanitarian crisis, we must also commit ourselves to the pursuit of justice, understanding, and empowerment. Only then can we hope to mend the fractured society of Goma, fostering a community that uplifts all its members.

Every action counts, and it all starts with acknowledging the problem. Are we ready to listen?

Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.