The M23 rebels have significantly advanced in the Democratic Republic of Congo, capturing key cities Goma and Bukavu. The allowance of allied government fighters to join M23 reveals disorganization within government forces. The DRC has issued a $5 million reward for information leading to the capture of M23 leaders as the conflict continues to claim civilian lives and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis.
The M23 rebels have intensified their offensive in the Democratic Republic of Congo, recently capturing Goma and Bukavu, the capitals of North and South Kivu provinces, respectively. Security reports indicate that the rebels have advanced into Nyabwindo village, strategically located near Walikale, where government control is crucial due to its significant mineral wealth.
Walikale’s strategic importance to the government is underscored by its industrial mine, which significantly contributes to tax revenues. According to Al Jazeera correspondent Alain Uaykani, “Walikale is very important for the government as it is the only place where the government has the industrial mine from which they are getting millions of tax payments”.
A notable defeat for government forces occurred when a government-aligned group, the Group Kabido, allied itself with the M23, citing grievances against the Kinshasa administration. Uaykani highlights, “This is showing the disorganisation within the DRC army, and the M23 is taking advantage of this situation on the ground”. Shortly thereafter, another group allied with the M23.
The escalating violence has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reporting that attacks on medical facilities have intensified, leading to the displacement of countless individuals. OCHA noted that from March 1 to 3, several hospitals were attacked during these violent disruptions.
In response to the worsening situation, the DRC government has announced a reward of $5 million for information leading to the capture of M23 leaders Corneille Nangaa, Bertrand Bisimwa, and Sultani Makenga, all of whom were sentenced to death in absentia in 2024. Furthermore, the government is offering an additional $4 million bounty for information on their accomplices.
The ongoing conflict has seen over 7,000 deaths in eastern DRC since January, predominantly among civilians. The M23, one of more than 200 armed groups in the region, resumed hostilities in 2021 and has claimed significant territories, amidst accusations that Rwanda is providing support to them.
The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to escalate, primarily due to the advancements of the M23 rebel group and the resulting governmental responses. With key towns like Goma and Bukavu falling into rebel hands, the DRC government faces severe challenges, including defections from allied groups. The humanitarian situation remains dire, prompting the government to offer substantial rewards for the capture of rebel leaders in an effort to restore order and control over the critical mineral-rich regions.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
