M23 rebels have captured Minova, a crucial trade hub in eastern DRC, threatening supply routes to Goma. The rebels have also overtaken additional towns in the region, exacerbating an ongoing humanitarian crisis that has displaced thousands. Accusations of Rwandan support for M23 complicate the conflict as fighting continues to affect Goma and surrounding areas.
Authorities have reported that M23 rebels have taken control of Minova, a vital trade hub in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which serves as a key supply route for the provincial capital of Goma. This seizure has raised concerns regarding the ongoing conflict in the region. Alongside Minova, the rebels have also captured the mining towns of Lumbishi, Numbi, and Shanje, and the town of Bweremana in North Kivu province.
The provincial governor of South Kivu, Jean-Jacques Purusi, confirmed the capture of Minova, noting that the DRC army acknowledged substantial advances made by the rebels in Minova and Bweremana. Officials did not specify if these locations were fully overtaken. The M23 group, characterized by its ethnic Tutsi composition, separated from the Congolese army over a decade ago and has been increasingly active since its resurgence in 2022.
The M23 conflict in eastern Congo is one of many as approximately 100 armed groups vie for control over the mineral-rich territory, resulting in prolonged violence and humanitarian crises. Since 1998, violence has resulted in the deaths of about six million people and the displacement of roughly seven million. The UN reported that combat in eastern Congo has led to the displacement of 237,000 individuals since the start of this year.
Further complicating the situation, both the DRC and the United Nations have accused Rwanda of providing support to M23 rebels, a claim that Rwanda has denied. Fighting continues to affect Goma, where residents express concern over the potential for conflict to encroach upon urban neighborhoods and essential supply routes have been compromised.
Al Jazeera’s Alain Uaykani reported fears among Goma residents regarding artillery fire from nearby battles, which could impact residential areas. Many displaced individuals resort to dangerous crossings on Lake Kivu to transport supplies, leading to frequent shipwrecks. The presence of armed conflict has also caused many NGOs and international organizations operating in Minova to temporarily halt their activities.
The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC is rooted in multiple armed factions struggling for dominance over resources and territory. Since the violent resurgence of the M23 group in 2022, the conflict has intensified, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis that has plagued the region for decades. Minova serves as a significant logistical point for goods traveling to and from Goma, making it a target for armed groups aiming to disrupt supply chains. With a history of large-scale violence and accusations of foreign involvement, the stability of eastern Congo remains tenuous.
The recent seizure of Minova by M23 rebels highlights the escalating conflict in eastern DRC, impacting vital supply routes and further displacing vulnerable populations. As allegations of foreign support to the rebels persist, the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate with thousands impacted by the ongoing violence. The international community’s attention remains imperative to address the complexities of the situation and to provide necessary aid to affected civilians.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
