Esther Imonmion
In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it’s back-to-school season. But in Goma, a city of over two million people, war is looming. Under the control of the M23 rebels, the city is suffocating, putting children’s education at risk.
In Goma’s central market, the atmosphere is far from festive. For months, the AFC/M23 rebels have controlled the city and its surroundings, strangling the local economy. Goods pile up, but buyers are scarce. This situation is affecting preparations for the new school year.
As the new school year begins across the country, the city of Goma faces a harsh reality: war under the control of the M23 rebels is disrupting daily life and putting education out of reach for many families.
In this city of over two million, the central market, usually bustling with back-to-school shoppers, is eerily quiet. The rebel occupation has choked the local economy, causing shortages and soaring prices for essential school supplies.
Shopkeeper Victoria Semego describes the grim situation:
“Since the war began, there is no work, and we cannot sell. In previous years at this time, I would have sold products worth about 100,000 francs (roughly $35), but now I’ve only sold 10,000 francs. We don’t know if children will study because hardly anyone is buying notebooks.”
Another vendor, Amani Serge, notes the impact on families:
“Customers aren’t coming. Many children will likely have to reuse old uniforms, but notebooks and other supplies are scarce and expensive.”
The rising cost of education essentials is felt beyond Goma, extending to nearby cities like Bukavu. Parents face impossible choices as prices for uniforms, notebooks, and backpacks soar, fueled by inflation and supply shortages linked to the ongoing conflict.
David Fiston, a local parent, shares his struggle:
“We are trying to cope, but with the war, it is very difficult to afford basic items for school. We keep trying, but the situation is really bad.”
For many families, the dream of schooling their children is slipping away. Bibiche Nyota, mother of four, spent nearly $50 on supplies, stretching every penny:
“I managed to buy notebooks and backpacks, but life is very hard. It’s uncertain if my children will continue their education.”
The violence gripping Goma and eastern DRC threatens to rob thousands of children of their chance for a better future. Despite the conflict and hardship, many young learners remain hopeful — though their access to education hangs in the balance.