UNICEF has accused both M23 rebels and Congolese government forces of raping numerous children in eastern Congo amid escalating violence, raising alarms about the humanitarian crisis in North and South Kivu. Recent reports indicate a significant surge in sexual violence, with UNICEF documenting 572 rape incidents, including 170 that involved children, prompting investigations into these violations.
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has accused armed groups in eastern Congo of committing sexual violence against numerous children amid escalating conflict. The allegations indicate that both M23 rebels and government forces are implicated in these acts as they battle for control of the region. Reports detail severe violations against children, which include widespread incidents of rape, raising concerns about the worsening humanitarian crisis in North and South Kivu provinces.
UNICEF’s Executive Director, Catherine Russell, stated the organization has received alarming reports detailing grave abuses, emphasizing that levels of sexual violence against children have reached unprecedented levels. Describing the harrowing accounts, Russell shared a testimony from a mother who revealed that her six daughters, the youngest only 12 years old, were systematically raped while searching for food.
In an alarming update, health facilities have reported a staggering increase in rape cases, amounting to 572 incidents in the first week of February. This number signifies more than a fivefold rise from prior weeks, with 170 of the victims being children. While armed men are responsible for these crimes, it remains unclear which specific groups they belong to, though all parties in the conflict are suspected of committing sexual violence.
The M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, continue to dominate among over 100 armed factions seeking authority in Congo’s resource-rich eastern regions, exacerbating a long-standing humanitarian crisis. Following their capture of Goma, the conflict’s intensity has surged, prompting the United Nations Human Rights Council to initiate an investigation into recent atrocities, including rapes and extrajudicial killings by both the Congolese army and the M23 rebels.
In addition, a trial has commenced against 84 Congolese soldiers accused of serious crimes, including murder and rape, held in Bukavu, a city currently under government military control, though the rebel threat is increasing. As the insecurity escalates, health conditions in Goma have deteriorated, with reports of patients escaping treatment for mpox amidst renewed violence and cholera cases rising sharply since the conflict reignited.
Health Minister Roger Kamba outlined ongoing efforts to send medical aid and supplies to Goma through humanitarian corridors facilitated by neighboring Kenya and Rwanda, although he did not elaborate on specifics. The current situation indicates serious health and safety concerns for the residents as armed conflict persists without signs of resolution.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo, primarily involving M23 rebels and government forces, has led to a significant increase in sexual violence against children, as reported by UNICEF. With alarming numbers of rape cases affecting children and ongoing humanitarian crises, the situation demands urgent international attention and action. Investigations into the conflict’s atrocities are underway, as concerns about health and security continue to rise in the region.
Original Source: apnews.com
