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Goma Under Rebel Control: Residents Face Economic Struggles

1/27/2026

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Summary

Story summary

One year after the M23 rebel group seized Goma, the city remains under their control.
Residents face repression amid growing economic hardship.
Economic expert Deo Bengeya notes that banks are nearly nonexistent, paralyzing recovery efforts.
Many businesses have shuttered as people rely on costly mobile money transfers.
Local markets remain active, though customers struggle to afford basic necessities.

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Story summary

One year after the M23 rebel group seized Goma, the city remains under their control.
Residents face repression amid growing economic hardship.
Economic expert Deo Bengeya notes that banks are nearly nonexistent, paralyzing recovery efforts.
Many businesses have shuttered as people rely on costly mobile money transfers.
Local markets remain active, though customers struggle to afford basic necessities.