One Year After AFC/M23 Took Goma, Residents Say Nights Are Now Peaceful

One year after AFC/M23 took control of Goma, residents can now sleep peacefully, according to the group’s coordinator, Corneille Nangaa.

He made the statement on January 12, 2026, during a meeting that brought together people from several areas. These included Lubero, Walikale, Masisi, Nyiragongo, Rutshuru, and parts of South Kivu.

Nangaa said the city has changed since AFC/M23 took over. He claimed that widespread killings and armed violence have stopped.

“For one year, this city has been freed from violent criminals,” he said. “Today, people sleep at night without fear. The gangs that once terrorized Goma no longer exist.”

He added that shootings and daily killings have become a thing of the past. According to him, this improvement is due to the commitment of AFC/M23 forces and cooperation from local residents.

Security Forces Praised

Nangaa praised security forces for protecting civilians and their property. He said they remained active despite challenges caused by the Kinshasa government.

He accused the central government of cutting salaries, closing banks, and blocking public services in the city.

“Our salaries were stopped. Banks were closed. Savings were taken away,” Nangaa said. “Electricity and communication services were also disrupted.”

Despite these challenges, he said residents have learned to adapt and find local solutions.

Commitment to Change

Nangaa insisted that AFC/M23 remains committed to what he described as a struggle for change. He said the group would continue until its goals are achieved.

AFC/M23 took control of Goma in late January 2025. Since then, the group has also controlled Bukavu.

The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains complex. However, AFC/M23 leaders claim that security has improved in areas under their control.