January 28, 2025
The resurgence of the M23 rebel group, originally active a decade ago, has led to widespread violence, displacing over a million people from their homes.
Jambojet halts flights to Goma amid escalating conflict
NAIROBI, Kenya, Jan 27 – Jambojet, Kenya’s low-cost airline, has suspended its flights between Nairobi and Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), citing escalating conflict and the subsequent closure of Goma’s airspace as the primary reasons.
In a statement released by the airline, Jambojet emphasized that safety remains its top priority. “The safety and security of our passengers and staff is paramount. We are monitoring the situation closely and will consult with relevant stakeholders in both Goma and Nairobi before making further decisions,” the airline said.
The temporary suspension is a response to increasing insecurity in Goma following heightened activity by the M23 rebel group, which recently gained control of significant areas around the city. The airline’s Customer Service team has been tasked with reaching out to affected passengers and JM Cargo clients, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused and assuring them of timely updates.
The Conflict in Goma
The humanitarian and security crisis in Goma has worsened dramatically in recent weeks. The resurgence of the M23 rebel group, originally active a decade ago, has led to widespread violence, displacing over a million people from their homes. The rebel group, reportedly advancing with alarming speed, has raised concerns about the stability of the region and the well-being of civilians.
The closure of Goma’s airspace by Congolese authorities is part of broader efforts to safeguard the region from further disruption, as the M23 continues its offensive. However, this has severely impacted transportation and humanitarian operations, cutting off critical links for aid delivery.
Regional and International Responses
Kenyan President William Ruto, who currently chairs the East African Community (EAC), has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities, emphasizing the need for dialogue and unity among regional leaders to restore stability. The EAC has deployed a regional force in the DRC, including Kenyan troops, to support peacekeeping efforts and counter rebel activities.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also weighed in, urging Rwanda to withdraw any forces from Congolese territory and calling for the M23 rebels to halt their advances. However, Rwanda denied allegations of supporting the group and accused the DRC government of provoking conflict and failing to address longstanding tensions.
Historical Context and Implications
The conflict in eastern DRC is rooted in decades of political instability, ethnic tensions, and competition over the region’s rich natural resources. The M23, primarily composed of fighters from the Tutsi ethnic group, accuses the DRC government of failing to honor previous peace agreements, including provisions for the reintegration of former fighters into the national army.
The violence has far-reaching consequences, affecting not only the DRC but also neighboring countries, including Rwanda and Uganda. The conflict threatens regional trade and economic integration efforts, with airlines like Jambojet now caught in the crossfire of a deteriorating security environment.
Jambojet’s Expansion Plans on Hold
Jambojet launched its Nairobi-Goma route in 2021 as part of its broader expansion strategy into Central Africa, recognizing the potential for economic growth and regional connectivity. However, the current suspension underscores the fragility of business operations in conflict-prone regions.
The airline has assured passengers that it will resume operations as soon as the situation in Goma stabilizes and airspace restrictions are lifted. For now, it joins the growing list of organizations forced to adjust plans amidst the escalating crisis.
TAGS