Goma's Resilience: One Year Under M23's Shadow

One year after M23 rebels took control of Goma in eastern Congo, the city remains under their grip. Economic activity has been severely impacted, with bank closures and airport shutdowns. Despite challenges, markets function, but there is no significant economic recovery, leaving many in poverty.

One year has passed since M23 rebels seized control of Goma, a major city in eastern Congo. Despite the passage of time, the scars of conflict remain, with the city's economy struggling to recover.

While markets and daily life continue, the shutdown of banks and the airport has severely crippled economic activities. Thousands of residents find themselves mired in poverty, relying on costly mobile money transfer services.

Residents like Espérance Mushashire and Agathe Hanghi express despair over the economic downturn, highlighting the challenges of high prices and low sales. Experts warn that without financial institutions, Goma's economic revival remains an elusive goal.

(With inputs from agencies.)