UN reports over 700 deaths and 2,800 injuries in five days of fighting in DRC

Fighting in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has resulted in over 700 deaths and 2,800 injuries from January 26 to 30, according to the UN. The situation is expected to worsen as assessments continue. Goma, the largest city in North Kivu province, is reportedly under the control of the AFC/M23 rebel coalition. The Congolese government has not confirmed this takeover but acknowledges the city is under siege. Access to safe drinking water in Goma has been cut off, forcing residents to use untreated water from Lake Kivu. This raises concerns about potential outbreaks of waterborne diseases.