Unrest in eastern Congo: Belgian embassy attacked amid fears of Ebola and famine in Goma
Protesters set fire to the gate of the Belgian embassy in Kinshasa on Tuesday, the Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs confirmed. The Dutch and French embassies were also targeted during demonstrations linked to the escalating violence in eastern Congo. The fire was quickly brought under control.
In the eastern province of North Kivu, the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group has seized significant territory and advanced rapidly in recent weeks. On Monday, the rebels entered Goma, the provincial capital, after fierce fighting. The violence has left at least 17 people dead and nearly 370 injured as M23 claims control.
The Belgian government reports around 40 Belgians remain in the area. a spokesperson said. “The embassy remains in close contact with them. Those on-site are advised to leave the region independently if they consider it safe to do so," a spokesman said.
Possible virus outbreaks
Meanwhile, the International Committee of the Red Cross is warning of possible virus outbreaks, including Ebola, because of the conflict's proximity to a laboratory in Goma containing high-risk samples. The UN's World Food Programme (WFP) has also suspended operations in the city, raising fears of food shortages.
"This is a critical test of the resilience of the people of Goma," said WFP spokesperson Shelley Thakral, stressing the importance of the next 24 hours as supplies run out. The situation remains tense, with international agencies calling for urgent action to protect civilians and maintain essential services.
© BELGA PHOTO and VIDEO ACP
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