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3. Goma Conflict: What About the Fate of the Lebanese Community in DRC?

The recent fighting in the cities of Goma and Kinshasa raises deep concerns about the fate of the Lebanese community in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Intense clashes between the Congolese Army and the M23, an armed anti-government militia backed by Rwanda, have reignited, especially near the Rwandan border. On January 26, fierce fighting erupted on the outskirts of Goma, near the border.

The escalating violence and unrest have driven Lebanese authorities to intervene in order to safeguard their nationals in the affected areas. As conditions in Goma, located in the eastern part of the country, became increasingly dire, many Lebanese were forced to flee. With the airport closed and access to Kinshasa restricted, a large number sought refuge in neighboring Rwanda.

In an interview with This is Beirut, Haitham Ibrahim, the Chargé d'Affaires at the Lebanese Embassy in Congo, stated that “out of the 25,000 Lebanese nationals in the country, around 100 live in the city of Goma, located to the east of the capital Kinshasa, where approximately 10,000 Lebanese reside.” Ibrahim further explained that, of the 100 in Goma, “80 were able to safely cross the border into Rwanda, which was temporarily opened on January 28 and 29, with plans to close today, Wednesday, at 3 PM, for security reasons.” The remaining 20 Lebanese chose to stay in Goma, deciding not to abandon their properties and businesses, and “fully assume responsibility for their decision,” said the diplomat.

In this context, Ibrahim emphasized “his close collaboration with both Congolese and Rwandan authorities to facilitate the safe passage of Lebanese nationals.” Simultaneously, a team from the Lebanese diaspora in Rwanda, under the supervision of Lebanon’s Honorary Consul in Rwanda, Rayan Nasr, is providing logistical support and necessary assistance to the newcomers. “While some financial aid is being offered to those in need, it’s worth noting that the Lebanese community in Goma is generally not experiencing major hardship,” clarified the Chargé d’Affaires.

Concerning the situation in Kinshasa, Ibrahim reported that protests on Tuesday led to the destruction of numerous Lebanese-owned businesses. However, he did not provide specific figures on the damages, noting that it’s nearly impossible to assess the extent of the losses at this stage.

However, Ibrahim reassured the public, stating, “To date, no casualties have been reported among the Lebanese community, and the situation has remained relatively calm since Wednesday morning, with negotiations currently underway to resolve the impasse.”

Amid the ongoing uncertainty, Lebanese authorities are advising their nationals to stay alert and keep in close contact with consular services for any emergencies.