M23 rebels patrol the streets of Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo on Wednesday, image: AP
(The Post News)- The situation in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has worsened as the Rwanda-supported M23 rebel group advances southward. The rebels have closed in on a key military airstrip near Kavumu, located just 40 kilometers from Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu province. This development follows their recent takeover of much of Goma, the capital of North Kivu, which has further escalated the crisis.
The M23 has also gained control of Minova, an important town situated about 50 kilometers from Bukavu. This development increases the risk to Bukavu and heightens concerns about the rebels’ wider goals in the area. In addition to Minova, the M23 rebels have taken control of other key locations, including the mining towns of Lumbishi, Numbi, and Shanje in South Kivu, as well as Bweremana in North Kivu.
In response to the escalating threat, Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi has called upon the nation’s youth to enlist in the military to counter the rebel advance. He has also dismissed the possibility of dialogue with the M23, emphasizing a military solution to the crisis, although the country’s armed forces are still inadequately equipped.
The humanitarian crisis has escalated dramatically, with thousands of civilians fleeing Minova and nearby regions to escape the violence. Many have sought refuge in already overcrowded areas, such as Goma, putting additional pressure on humanitarian organizations to deliver food, water, and medical assistance.
The international community has strongly condemned the conflict and urged all parties to stop hostilities and engage in dialogue to avoid further escalation. The United Nations, the United States, the European Union, China, Britain, France, and Angola have all urged Rwanda to withdraw its troops from Congolese territory. However, Rwandan President Paul Kagame denies any involvement, asserting that the M23 rebels are Congolese.
Tensions between Rwanda and South Africa have escalated following the deaths of 13 South African soldiers in the DRC. Meanwhile, the M23 rebels have committed to continuing their offensive, even declaring their intention to advance towards the capital, Kinshasa. With over half a million people displaced, the crisis has become one of the most severe humanitarian emergencies in the region.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) recently convened an emergency summit to tackle the situation, although key leaders such as Kagame and Angola’s President João Lourenço were notably absent.
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