Violence escalates in eastern Congo as rebels seize Goma, displacing thousands

Violence in eastern Congo has intensified as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seized the city of Goma last month. This escalation has displaced thousands, including families like Zawadi Sifa's, who have fled multiple times in search of safety. The conflict has resulted in approximately 3,000 deaths since late January, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. Goma, a critical hub, was already hosting 700,000 displaced people before the recent fighting. Despite claims from rebel leaders of restoring order, U.N. experts warn of ongoing dangers, particularly for women and girls. Many displaced individuals, including Sifa, face difficult choices, often returning to unsafe areas or living in precarious conditions.