Uhuru Kenyatta, a former president of Kenya, journeyed Tuesday to Goma and Rutshuru in the North Kivu region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where he met refugees fleeing the violence and begged warring parties to put an end to the conflict.

Before heading down the road to Rutshuru, which is dotted with IDP camps, Mr. Kenyatta, the mediator for the East African Community’s seven member nations, was invited to the Joint Operations Coordination Centre.

The former head of state was horrified by what he saw and vehemently condemned the humanitarian calamity that the people of North Kivu are currently experiencing.

“These mothers, grandmothers, and kids are now all outsiders in their own nation. Regardless of our disagreements, let’s show compassion for them and put an end to the conflict before we start a conversation “He urged in a heartfelt plea.
The displaced warriors complained to Mr. Kenyatta about their poor living conditions.

“What I have witnessed is a tragedy and, if we are not careful, will result in a humanitarian catastrophe. There must be an urgent end to this war “the former chief of state pleaded.

Also read Uhuru begs for protection from the war as he visits Goma in the DRC.

In the Nyragongo territory of North Kivu, a lot of families, especially from the Kibumba and Muhumba communities, are arriving from Rutshuru every day and staying in schools, churches, and public places.

Constant Ndima, the military governor of Goma, estimates that 38,440 individuals, including children, are internally displaced. More than 200,000 people have already left their homes since the fighting started.

Following the hysteria sparked by a false alarm declaring the presence of rebels in the city, hundreds of people descended upon Goma on Tuesday.