The recent surge of violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo is primarily attributed to Rwandan-backed M23 rebels who captured Goma and are advancing towards Bukavu. This conflict, rooted in historic tensions since the 1990s, has led to significant casualties and displacement. Despite international peace efforts, the situation remains dire, fueled by ethnic tensions and resource control, with fears of regional escalation involving neighboring countries.
In late January, Rwandan-backed M23 rebels captured Goma, eastern Congo’s largest city, and have been advancing toward Bukavu, the region’s second largest city. This escalation stems from a prolonged conflict over power, identity, and resources that can be traced back to the 1990s Rwandan genocide and the subsequent fall of Mobutu Sese Seko, former dictator of Zaire. Since 2012, hundreds of thousands have died, and over a million people are displaced due to ongoing violence.
After seizing Goma, the M23 rebels moved south toward Bukavu while controlling the strategic Kavumu airport. Their actions aim to signal potential governance in Goma, despite the chaos, including reports of looting and sexual violence, in areas close to the frontlines. The United Nations refugee agency expressed alarm at the rapidly worsening conditions, with about 350,000 people left homeless due to the war.
The involvement of Burundian and Rwandan forces raises concerns that the fighting may escalate into a broader regional conflict, reminiscent of the devastating wars in the late 1990s that claimed millions of lives. South African troops have recently been deployed amid ongoing clashes with M23, following the deaths of 14 South African soldiers in combat.
M23, named after a peace agreement from March 23, 2009, represents a faction of ethnic Tutsi insurgents. Accusing the Congolese government of failing to honor the peace deal, M23 initiated its current rebellion in 2022 to protect Tutsi interests against Hutu militias, including the FDLR, formed by Hutus involved in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. The group has benefitted from control over coltan-mining in Rubaya, generating significant monthly revenue.
The resource-rich eastern Congo is home to vital minerals like tantalum and cobalt, essential for modern technologies. Despite vast mining wealth, the country remains the world’s most aid-dependent, with much of its humanitarian assistance reliant on U.S. funding, which has recently diminished after protective measures were imposed.
Congo has accused Rwanda of exacerbating the conflict by sending troops to support the M23 rebels. A report by a U.N. Group of Experts confirmed allegations of Rwandan involvement, which Rwanda denies, claiming it is acting defensively. The historical context includes prior military interventions by Rwanda and Uganda in Congo to protect their interests and confront militia groups.
Efforts to negotiate a peaceful resolution have been slow, with leaders from Eastern and Southern Africa pushing for direct talks with M23, which the Congolese government has continuously rejected, labeling the group as a terrorist organization. President Felix Tshisekedi has emphasized this stance during an international security conference.
U.N. peacekeepers have been involved in supporting the Congolese army against M23 according to a longstanding mandate, but recent events, including the fall of Goma, prompted staff evacuations. The Southern African Development Community has augmented its military presence in Congo, yet recent months have seen losses among their ranks. Meanwhile, private military contractors assisting the government against M23 have also surrendered, contributing to the complex situation.
The surge in violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo is driven by the resurgence of the M23 rebel group, which has significant backing from Rwanda and involves complex ethnic tensions rooted in historical conflicts. Despite international efforts for peace, the lack of direct negotiations and the deteriorating humanitarian situation complicate prospects for stability in the region. Continued fighting threatens to escalate into a wider regional conflict, making international attention and intervention crucial.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
