Rwanda-backed rebels have aggressively advanced into Walikale, a mineral-rich town in eastern Congo, disregarding ceasefire requests from the Congolese and Rwandan presidents after a significant escalation in conflict. The situation has raised serious humanitarian concerns as millions remain displaced and vital resources are threatened. International intervention, particularly with U.S. support, is highlighted as necessary to mitigate the ongoing crisis.
Rwanda-backed rebels have intensified their incursions into a vital mineral-rich town in Congo, disregarding ceasefire pleas from both the Congolese and Rwandan presidents. The M23 rebel group’s recent advances follow a sustained conflict in eastern Congo, which surged in January after the capture of the strategic city of Goma. The escalation was particularly noted after discussions between the two presidents in Qatar, aiming for an immediate ceasefire that remains unheeded.
On Wednesday evening, reports confirmed that M23 rebels infiltrated the town of Walikale. Taking control of Walikale would grant the rebels critical access to a road that connects four provinces in eastern Congo. This move effectively jeopardizes Congolese army positions, illustrating a significant territorial gain for the rebels. Local sources reported heavy artillery exchanges, diminishing only to sporadic gunfire as the night progressed.
Fiston Misona, a civil society activist, expressed deep concerns for the Congolese army’s waning resistance, stating, “Our Congolese army is no longer fighting.” No immediate responses were available from either the M23 or the Congolese government regarding the unfolding situation.
Walikale is strategically important due to its significant mineral deposits, including substantial tin and gold resources. The Bisie tin mine, located nearby, constitutes a major source of tin exports for the region. However, in light of the advancing conflict, its operator, Alphamin Resources, pruned mining operations temporarily last week.
During discussions with Fox News, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi indicated a willingness to negotiate on minerals with the United States, suggesting that U.S. intervention could help deter armed groups in the region. He stated, “I think that the U.S. is able to use either pressure or sanctions to make sure that armed groups who are in … (Congo) can be kept at bay.”
The M23 is a prominent faction among the 100 armed groups vying for control in eastern Congo, a region plagued by humanitarian crises and displacement affecting over 7 million individuals. Reports also indicate that the group possesses approximately 4,000 soldiers from Rwanda, with aspirations that have included advancing towards the capital, Kinshasa.
The U.N. Human Rights Council has initiated an inquiry into the reported atrocities in the region, including serious human rights abuses by both the rebels and the government forces. Following the uptick in violence, Doctors Without Borders noted that their Walikale base came under fire, impacting their operations, and expressed concern over the rising number of wounded due to the conflict. In the wake of escalating unrest, many residents are fleeing the area, prompting fears for the civilian population’s wellbeing.
Pronczuk reported from Dakar, Senegal.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Congo has taken a dire turn as Rwanda-backed rebels assert control over critical towns, disregarding calls for a ceasefire. The humanitarian crisis continues to escalate, with millions displaced and humanitarian organizations facing operational challenges. International attention is urgent, particularly in light of the proposed negotiations involving the United States regarding mineral resources and local security. Without timely intervention, the situation in eastern Congo may deteriorate further, with severe implications for the civilian population.
Original Source: www.wfmz.com
