BBC Goes Inside Rebel-Held City in DR Congo
The BBC obtained exclusive access to Goma, six months after M23 rebels seized the city. Reporting from the city in February, BBC correspondent Paul Njie finds signs of recovery but also witnesses the emotional trauma of women who were victims of sexual assault during the conflict.
Return to Normalcy
Six months after M23 rebels took the eastern city of Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo, signs of a return to normality are evident. Residents are pursuing everyday life, businesses are opening, and the city's infrastructure is being restored. Buses arrive filled with commuters returning to work and school, while streets are lined with vendors selling their goods. Construction is underway to restore damaged buildings and essential services, indicating a gradual recovery.
Emotional Scars
However, beneath this façade of recovery, the emotional scars run deep. Many women who survived sexual assaults during the fighting face profound trauma, compounded by the lack of support and justice. The BBC interview with a woman named Denise highlights her harrowing experience of being raped by both the rebels and the Congolese army.
Hope for the Future
Despite the challenges, some women are finding hope and resilience through a support group, which provides a safe space to share their experiences and find healing. The group's founder, Tatiana, aims to help members recover and advocate for justice and prevention of such crimes in the future.
