Rwanda-backed rebels have captured Walikale, a crucial town in eastern Congo, defying ceasefire appeals from regional leaders. The escalation of the conflict threatens vital mineral supply routes and has resulted in significant humanitarian crises, including mass displacement and attacks on healthcare facilities. International bodies are seeking to address these issues amid ongoing hostilities.
Rwandan-backed rebels have intensified their offensive in eastern Congo, capturing the strategic town of Walikale, thus ignoring calls for a ceasefire from Congolese and Rwandan presidents. This escalation follows recent discussions and a failed ceasefire negotiation attempt amid ongoing hostilities since January when the M23 rebels seized Goma and subsequently Bukavu.
As rebels advance, they now threaten essential supply routes connecting the provinces of North Kivu, South Kivu, Tshopo, and Maniema in Congo. Reports indicate heavy artillery exchanges, with residents expressing concern for their safety. Local civil society activists have voiced fears over the Congolese army’s unwillingness or inability to counter the rebel advances, describing the situation as dire.
Walikale is rich in resources, notably containing major tin deposits and significant gold mines. The Bisie tin mine, crucial for North Kivu’s economy, has suspended operations due to the escalating conflict. President Felix Tshisekedi has mentioned his willingness to negotiate mineral deals with the United States in return for enhanced security measures to deter armed groups.
The M23 group, supported by approximately 4,000 Rwandan troops, is one of many armed factions in the region, contributing to a humanitarian crisis that has displaced over seven million individuals. Concurrently, the U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an investigation into reported human rights abuses by both the Congolese army and rebel factions.
Walikale’s healthcare facilities are under severe strain due to direct conflict, with Doctors Without Borders reporting damage to their premises and a potential influx of casualties. As violence escalates, the local population has begun to flee in fear, heightening concerns regarding the safety and well-being of civilians amid this ongoing turmoil.
In conclusion, the situation in eastern Congo is rapidly deteriorating with the recent capture of Walikale by M23 rebels. The ongoing conflict exacerbates a humanitarian crisis, displacing millions and threatening vital mineral resources. The failure to adhere to ceasefire calls and the involvement of external forces such as Rwandan troops complicates the resolution of tensions in the region. International efforts, including investigations by the U.N., may play a crucial role in addressing the violence and its consequences.
Original Source: halifax.citynews.ca
