Rebels from the M23 group, supported by Rwandan soldiers, have claimed the capture of Goma and are advancing towards Kinshasa. Local sources indicate their approach towards Bukavu raises humanitarian concerns as fighting continues. The DRC government has rejected talks, while regional leaders are emergency summoning to address the escalating crisis.
Rebels from the M23 group have vowed to advance towards Kinshasa after declaring the capture of Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This latest offensive, reportedly supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan soldiers, represents a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict, which is centered around control of the region’s mineral wealth. The M23 fighters have shifted their focus southward towards Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province, following Goma’s fall.
Rebel leader Corneille Nangaa proclaimed, “We will continue the march of liberation all the way to Kinshasa.” Their advance comes amidst alarming reports of rapid movements towards Bukavu, a city with a sizeable population estimated at two million. Local sources indicate M23 forces are approaching a crucial military airport near Bukavu, raising concerns over escalating violence in the region.
The United Nations warned of credible information suggesting the rebels are rapidly approaching Bukavu, further intensifying the humanitarian crisis that has already displaced half a million people this month. As the situation deteriorates, food and water shortages are becoming increasingly dire for the local population. The International Organization for Migration highlights that millions were already displaced before this latest surge in violence.
In response to the growing tensions, the Congolese government, led by Defense Minister Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita, rejected any proposals for dialogue with the rebels. Meanwhile, leaders of the Southern African Development Community have convened an emergency summit in Zimbabwe, reflecting broader regional concerns over the unfolding conflict. The situation remains precarious as all parties prepare for potential military engagement.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been embroiled in conflict primarily due to its vast mineral resources, which have attracted various armed groups. The M23, one of more than 100 armed factions in the east, has claimed to receive support from Rwanda, leading to tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. The humanitarian crisis in the eastern DRC has been exacerbated by years of conflict, displacing millions and creating urgent needs for food and resources. The current clash epitomizes a long-standing regional struggle involving ethnic tensions and historical grievances. Rwanda has accused the DRC government of collaborating with Hutu militias associated with the 1994 genocide. This ongoing strife poses not only a risk to stability within DRC but has broader implications for regional security, particularly following the deaths of foreign soldiers in the conflict.
The situation in eastern DRC has taken a severe turn as M23 rebels, allegedly backed by Rwandan forces, capture strategic locations, including Goma. The humanitarian implications are distressing, with hundreds of thousands affected by displacement and shortages. Despite offers of dialogue from the rebels, the Congolese government remains firmly opposed. Regional leaders are convening to address these escalating tensions, highlighting the urgent need for resolution and stability in the region.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
