The most recent RDC [Congolese] government estimates are that 8,500 died in the recent battle to take Goma. Since then, the conflict has spread to Bukavu on the south of Lake Kivu as the M23 rebels continue their advance. 330,000 additional children are out of school and more than 500,000 people have been displaced bringing the total in the region to 4.6 million. Our understanding is that a main concern of those living in Goma is the growing insecurity on the streets. There are widespread reports of violent attacks and retribution, with people taking the law into their own hands. Please continue to pray for peace and stability and for all of CMS’s partners serving in Goma.