Conflict and Insecurity in Eastern Congo Threaten the Real Estate Market

As the M23 rebel group intensifies its operations in North Kivu Province, the real estate market in Eastern DRC is facing major setbacks. Construction projects have been halted, investors are pulling out, and thousands of civilians are fleeing to safer regions. This highlights the devastating impact that insecurity can have on housing development and urban investment.

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The real estate sector in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is currently facing one of its worst crises in years. With the resurgence of violence by the M23 rebel group—reportedly controlling several areas in North Kivu—property development in cities like Goma and Rutshuru has come to a near standstill. Local authorities and economic analysts confirm that both foreign and domestic investors are abandoning their real estate projects or relocating them to safer cities like Kinshasa and Lubumbashi.

Thousands of families have fled their homes due to the ongoing violence, with many forced to leave properties behind or sell them at drastically reduced prices. This mass displacement has shaken the housing market, leading to devaluation of properties, construction project delays, and the suspension of real estate services.

Local real estate operators report losses totaling hundreds of millions of dollars as numerous buildings under construction have been abandoned or destroyed. Developers and investors are voicing concerns over the future of the sector if peace is not restored soon. Beyond property values, the conflict is also affecting employment in construction, reducing tax revenues, and slowing down urban growth.

In Goma, buildings that were halfway completed have now turned into ghost sites. What was once a rapidly growing city with vibrant development potential is now experiencing an economic freeze. Experts warn that if this insecurity persists, DRC could lose a major opportunity to transform its urban centers in the eastern region.

Despite the grim situation in the east, other parts of the country remain relatively stable. Lubumbashi and Kinshasa continue to attract real estate investments, particularly for commercial and mid-income housing. The Congolese government has repeatedly called for peaceful solutions through diplomatic dialogue while increasing military operations to regain control of conflict zones.

If peace efforts succeed, urban development in the east could resume, and investors might return to finish abandoned projects. However, until long-term stability is achieved, real estate in conflict-affected areas of DRC remains at serious risk, highlighting the urgent need for security as a foundation for economic growth.