Fighting in Congo Worsens yet Again

By: Brett Hulett

Like many times in recent history, fighting in Congo, Africa has become incredibly intensified. Many are fearing that the recent conflict will lead to similar situations than in 1996 and 1998, where many neighboring states joined the fighting, only to intensify the problem. With Congo on the brink of war yet again, the issues surrounding the state have gained more diplomatic interest than any others in recent years. The French foreign minister, British foreign minister, and select United Nations officials recently traveled to the city of Goma, where much of the guerilla-style fighting has been taking place.
The city of Goma is now over-run with rebel forces; led by Laurent Nkunda, rebel powers have been extremely aggressive in the past couple of weeks. Only a couple of days ago, rebel forces made their way through a small suburb in Goma, raping and killing the village's inhabitants. Controlling these rebels is the main goal in this continuously worsening issue. Diplomats are hoping to form some sort of peace-documents with the rebels, however experts feel there is little that can be done in this area.
Rumors have now surfaced that Angola may be joining the fight, which will only increase the problem. Because of this, forces have been scrambling to come up with diplomatic solutions to the fighting, however many feel it may already be too late.