Regional airline Jambojet has announced the suspension of its flights between Nairobi and Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), citing safety concerns following escalating conflict in the region.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 27, 2025, the airline informed its customers that the suspension would take effect immediately.
This comes after M23 rebels declared their seizure of Goma, a key city in eastern DRC, after a rapid offensive against the Congolese army. The conflict has triggered chaos, with tens of thousands of residents fleeing the city and its neighbouring towns.
Jambojet emphasized that the safety of its passengers and staff remains its top priority.
“We regret to inform you that we are temporarily halting our service between Nairobi and Goma (DRC) effective Monday, 27th January 2025, due to the increasing safety concerns and closure of the airspace. The safety and security of our guests and staff is our utmost priority,” the statement read in part.
The airline added that it is monitoring the situation closely and will engage with key stakeholders in both Goma and Nairobi before deciding on the next steps.
Jambojet apologized to its customers for the inconvenience caused by the suspension of flights.
The airline also reassured passengers that its cargo services and customer communication channels remain active for further assistance.
“We are closely monitoring these developments and will deliberate on the next steps together with key stakeholders both in Goma and Nairobi + GOMA FLIGHTS UPDATE Our Customer Service team is in touch with all affected guests and JM Cargo customers through our official communication channels. We apologize for the inconvenience caused and thank you most sincerely for your understanding,” the statement read.
The crisis in Goma unfolded after M23 rebels launched a lightning advance over the weekend, overpowering government forces. Video footage shared by residents showed rebel fighters patrolling the streets of the city, which is home to over one million people.
Local reports indicate that the city is now calm following hours of gunfire and explosions during the takeover.
The situation has sparked regional tensions, with DR Congo’s foreign minister accusing neighbouring Rwanda of backing the rebels, a charge Rwanda denies. Kigali has countered by accusing Kinshasa of supporting militias intent on regime change in Rwanda.
Ceasefire in Goma
Earlier, President William Ruto called for an immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities in the Eastern DRC.
He condemned ongoing military actions, including the closure of airspace in Goma, and urged all parties to facilitate humanitarian access and pursue peaceful conflict resolution.
“I call for the immediate and unconditional cessation of hostilities, emphasise the obligation of all parties to facilitate humanitarian access to affected populations and urge both sides to pursue peaceful means to resolve this tragic conflict,” Ruto stated.
As the chairperson of the East African Commission (EAC), Ruto appealed to Presidents Félix Tshisekedi (Congo) and Paul Kagame (Rwanda), as well as parties to the Luanda process, to prioritize peace and uphold regional principles of good neighbourliness.
“I call on them to dedicate all efforts towards achieving peace in Eastern DRC and restoring good neighbourliness and essential principles underpinning regional peace and collective responsibility,” he added.
Ruto announced plans for an Extraordinary Summit within 48 hours, following consultations with EAC Heads of State, to address the conflict. He reaffirmed the EAC’s commitment to collaborating with the African Union, Southern African Development Community, and the international community to encourage dialogue among the warring parties
