EACSOF Calls for Urgent Action to Restore Peace in Goma and Eastern DRC
By Shadrack Nyakoe
The East Africa Civil Society Organizations Forum (EACSOF) has issued an urgent appeal for immediate regional and international intervention to address the escalating humanitarian and security crisis in Goma, North Kivu, and the broader Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In a statement released on February 3, EACSOF expressed deep concern over the growing violence, which has led to mass displacement, loss of lives, and severe disruptions to essential services.
The organization warned that the deteriorating situation poses a significant threat to both the stability of the DRC and the broader security, peace, and economic integration of the East African region.
Humanitarian Crisis and First-Hand Accounts
Following a consultative meeting with civil society organizations from across the region, including those based in the DRC, EACSOF detailed the dire conditions on the ground.
Testimonies from affected communities in Goma described widespread distress, forced displacement, and severe shortages of food, water, and medical assistance.
Women, children, and internally displaced persons have been disproportionately affected by the violence. Reports of sexual violence, destruction of livelihoods, and restricted humanitarian access highlight the urgent need for coordinated efforts to protect civilians. The situation is further worsened by disruptions to critical infrastructure, including electricity, water supply, and communication networks.
Calls for Diplomatic Action and Ceasefire Enforcement
While acknowledging ongoing diplomatic efforts by the African Union (AU), East African Community (EAC), International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), and Southern African Development Community (SADC), EACSOF stressed the need for stronger and more coordinated action.
The forum called on regional bodies to enforce an immediate ceasefire and ensure that all armed groups withdraw from civilian areas in accordance with existing peace agreements, including the Luanda Roadmap (2022) and the Nairobi Process (2022).
To facilitate lasting peace, EACSOF proposed the establishment of a High-Level Mediation Committee composed of respected African diplomats, peace negotiators, and conflict resolution experts. This committee would oversee inclusive dialogue aimed at finding a sustainable political solution to the conflict.
Humanitarian Aid and Protection of Civilians
EACSOF urged the DRC government to ensure unhindered humanitarian access by keeping aid corridors open and allowing emergency relief to reach affected populations. The forum also called on international donors and humanitarian agencies to scale up their response efforts to address the growing needs of displaced communities.
Citing international humanitarian law, including the Geneva Conventions and the Kampala Convention on Internally Displaced Persons (2009, AU), EACSOF emphasized the need to uphold civilian protection and ensure essential aid reaches those in need.
Regional Security and Accountability for Human Rights Violations
To prevent further destabilization, EACSOF urged the EAC and SADC to reinforce border security mechanisms to curb the movement of armed groups and the illicit trade of weapons. The organization also called for strengthened regional peacekeeping efforts to protect civilians in accordance with international law and regional peace and security commitments under the EAC Treaty (1999) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR, 1981).
Additionally, EACSOF stressed the need for accountability for human rights violations, urging regional and international legal bodies, including the International Criminal Court (ICC), to prosecute those responsible for war crimes, attacks on civilians, and other violations of international humanitarian law.
The organization also highlighted the need for protecting human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society actors to ensure freedom of expression and civic engagement remain safeguarded.
A Call for Collective Action
EACSOF reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for peace, amplifying the voices of affected communities, and working with regional and international partners to push for urgent and effective action.
“This crisis is not just a Congolese issue—it is a test of our collective commitment to regional stability, human dignity, and lasting peace. Now is the time for decisive leadership and a coordinated response to end the suffering in Eastern DRC,” the statement read signed by Edmund Yakan
President, EACSOF
EACSOF urged all stakeholders, including governments, diplomatic bodies, and humanitarian organizations, to act swiftly to protect human lives, strengthen diplomatic efforts, and secure a peaceful resolution without further delay.
