Britain and France head to Congo
Updated on 31 October 2008
There are desperate scenes in the Democratic Republic of Congo as aid groups struggle to reach tens of thousands of refugees in need of food and water.
They have been forced from their homes after days of fighting between the government and rebel troops.
Diplomatic efforts have been stepped up, and the foreign secretary is on his way to the troubled region.
Tutsi forces from the north loyal to General Laurent Nkunda in the past days have moved south towards the city of Goma.
They currently hold positions just north of Goma's city limits.
Congolese government forces have retreated to the south west after a ceasefire was brokered two days ago.
UN troops have formed an area of separation around Congolese government troops and along the road in rebel-held areas.
Lucy Manning reports.
