Caught in Goma’s Crossfire: Tanzanian truck driver’s urgent call for rescue

On Sunday, July 26, 2024, M23 rebels took control of Goma, located in Eastern DRC, sparking fierce fighting that forced the flee of over two million people.

The DRC government condemned the rebel actions as a declaration of war, while the United Nations Security Council called for the removal of the rebels and foreign troops from the area.

The Congo River Alliance rebel group leader, an ally of M23 Sultani Makenga, declared that the rebels’ aim was not only to seize Goma but to also capture the capital, Kinshasa, and overthrow President Félix Tshisekedi.

As of Tuesday, January 28, 2025, Chawamata Chairman, Mr Nuhu Mgodoka confirmed in an interview with The Citizen sister newspaper Mwananchi that the union has been in constant communication with the Tanzanian Embassy in the DRC.

He assured that efforts are underway to ensure the safe return of the stranded drivers.

"Since we first became aware of the situation, we've been in constant communication with our embassy," said Mr Mgodoka, his voice tinged with both concern and determination.

"They've assured us that all Tanzanians, including our fellow drivers, will receive the support they need. Even now, we're seeing videos online of drivers reaching out for help, and it’s clear that this crisis is far from over,” he added.

Currently, 43 drivers are confirmed to be stranded in Goma, although the number may exceed 50, as some are in other areas such as Jambo Safari.

In a widely circulated video, a man, speaking from under a vehicle near Goma’s airport, implores for help.

He explains that, although they are dangerously close to the UN and Monusco army camps, they are unable to make any contact with the forces.

"We are so near, yet completely cut off—it's as if we're invisible to them," he said, the frustration evident in his tone.

"We have no means of reaching out for help. We have no one to help us. We are 43 Tanzanians, and we don’t know who will come to get us,” he added.

The man’s recording amidst explosions in the background called for volunteers to share the message.

Drivers' accounts

One of the stranded drivers, Mr William Mwajeka, said by phone that the situation was dire, noting that he had been confined to his vehicle for three days due to the ongoing fighting.

“There is frequent gunfire where I am; it’s very dangerous,” said Mr Mwajeka, adding that explosions are causing metal debris to fall onto his vehicle.

He described being advised to flee using a boda boda (motorcycle) but stated that this is impossible due to the violence.

A driver with Kii Star Company, Mr Abdallah Msalu, reported that the violence began four days ago but escalated sharply yesterday, noting that Reb rebels stopped him and a colleague, Stephano, on their return journey.

“The rebels demanded money, which we gave them. When we reached the border between Congo and Rwanda, fighting erupted between the rebels and UN forces,” explained Mr Msalu.

He and his colleagues are now in Rwanda, awaiting further instructions, as their travel documents were not stamped after border officers fled the violence.

Truck owners respond

The Tanzania Middle and Small Truck Owners’ Association (Tamstoa) Chairman, Mr Chuki Shabani, confirmed they are in regular contact with the drivers.

“At 3 pm today, they reported that the fighting had lessened, but civilians in the area have started looting the drivers' belongings,” said Mr Shabani.

Government Statement

The Government Chief Spokesperson Gerson Msigwa, confirmed that the Tanzanian government is aware of the situation and is liaising with the embassy in DRC to ensure the safety of the stranded drivers.

“The main challenge is that the area remains a conflict zone, making it difficult to enter and extract the individuals safely. However, we are exploring the best possible solutions to ensure their safe evacuation,” said Mr Msigwa.