In the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), following the offensives of the M23 rebels, the price of food has increased in the city of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, which has more than one million inhabitants. The most consumed foods, such as potatoes and beans, have seen their prices double in the Birere and Kituku markets, on which the Gomatracien depend.
From our correspondent in Goma,
At the Birere food market, traders complain about the lack of customers. But also the taxes imposed armed groupswhich caused prices to rise RDC. « This quality of multi-colored beans sells for $65 a bag, red beans for $70, a bag of potatoes for $95 ! », observed the one d’eux, Bahufite Ntihemuka.
Due to declining production in the Masisi, Rutshuru regions and road closures, food products are increasingly scarce in Goma. Potato wholesaler at Birere market, Neema Ngarukiye finds it difficult to sell her goods, which are too expensive, and also has difficulty sourcing them: ” Before the war I unloaded ten trucks a day. Today I can’t even sell a truck. »
Doubling of prices on the markets
Beans, vegetables, potatoes, the most consumed foods in Goma, have seen their prices double. This inflation damages the purchasing power of families. Sitting on a volcanic stone in front of her small women’s clothing business in the Ndosho district, west of Goma, Céline Mbuhu says that today she has difficulty feeding her children:
« We are living in hardship because of the M23 war. Before, even with my seven kids, I could easily stock up for dinner with 5 000 Congolese francs [1,7$]. Today it is almost impossible. »
Bananas and coal cross Lake Kivu
From the advance of The M23 rebels surrounding the city of Goma, the food supply became a headache. About ten kilometers away, on the shores of Lake Kivu, the Kituku market has become Goma’s only hope for survival. Food products leave the territory of Masisi, Minova and Buzi-Bulenga, in the province of South Kivu, and arrive en masse every Monday and Thursday, market days. Zawadi Emilliane is a trader who crosses Lake Kivu to sell her plane trees:
« I bring at least ten bunches of bananas and if I win a lot I take 10 000 CFA francs », she congratulates herself. Even coal, which came from Masisi and Rutshuru, now comes from Kalehe. “ There is a lot of activity at Kituku Marketobserves its president Chance Kanane. Coal sales can exceed 5 000 bags on Monday and Thursday, market days. »
While waiting for the end of the war and the reopening of the Goma-Sake-Minova road, the sea route on Lake Kivu has become essential for supplying the population of Goma, swollen by displaced people from the surrounding area.
Time.news Editor: Welcome to this special segment where we delve into the pressing issues affecting communities across the globe. Today, we have Dr. Isabelle Mukwege, a renowned expert in conflict economics and food security, joining us from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Dr. Mukwege, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here to discuss such an important topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s start with the situation in Goma. With the recent offensives by the M23 rebels, we’re hearing alarming reports about skyrocketing food prices. What can you tell us about how this conflict is impacting food accessibility in the region?
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: The escalation of conflict in Goma and surrounding areas has severely disrupted food supply chains. The M23 offensives have not only compromised the safety of farmers and traders but also caused the closure of vital transportation routes. This has resulted in declining agricultural production in regions like Masisi and Rutshuru, which are key suppliers for Goma. Consequently, food scarcity has driven prices up significantly.
Time.news Editor: We’ve learned that the prices of staple foods like beans and potatoes have doubled, making it difficult for families to afford basic nutrition. In your experience, how does such inflation affect a household’s overall wellbeing?
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: This kind of inflation is catastrophic for families, particularly those already living in poverty. When essential food items double in price, families are forced to make difficult choices, often sacrificing nutrition to meet other basic needs. This ongoing crisis can lead to increased malnutrition rates, affecting children and vulnerable populations the most. The psychological toll of food insecurity also cannot be overlooked; it creates immense stress and anxiety among families trying to survive.
Time.news Editor: You mentioned food scarcity as a result of the conflict, but I understand there are also issues related to taxation imposed by armed groups. Can you elaborate on how these taxes affect local traders and consumers?
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: Absolutely. The presence of armed groups means that traders often face illegal taxes and extortion, which adds to their operating costs. As a result, these costs are passed down to consumers, further driving prices up. Traders like Bahufite Ntihemuka and Neema Ngarukiye are caught in a vicious cycle—they can’t sell their goods because prices are high, yet they must cover their costs, including these illegal taxes. This environment not only stifles local commerce but also diminishes the market’s overall dynamism.
Time.news Editor: It sounds incredibly challenging. In your opinion, what immediate actions can be taken to alleviate the food crisis in Goma?
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: Immediate humanitarian assistance is critical. Organizations must step in to provide food aid and support local farmers to reinstate agricultural production in safer areas. Furthermore, it’s vital for international actors to advocate for peace and stability in the region, supporting local governance and disbanding armed groups that impose these detrimental taxes. Long-term, investment in infrastructure and market access is needed to boost resilience against future conflicts.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mukwege. It’s clear that the situation in Goma is complex and multifaceted. We appreciate your insights today. Before we conclude, is there anything final you’d like to share with our audience?
Dr. Isabelle Mukwege: Yes, I’d like to emphasize the importance of solidarity and support for the people of Goma. Awareness and action from the international community can help alleviate some of the hardships faced by these resilient individuals. Every effort counts in bringing visibility to their plight and seeking lasting solutions. Thank you for giving this issue a platform.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mukwege, for your valuable perspectives and for shedding light on the situation in Goma. We hope for a swift resolution to this crisis.