War threatens eastern Democratic Republic of Congo as Rwanda-backed M23 rebels captured two major cities within a month, wreaking havoc in the mineral-rich region.
Rebels Tighten Hold on Strategic Mining Areas
The M23 fighters seized Bukavu, eastern DRC’s second-largest city, on 16 February, following their takeover of Goma in late January. The group now hunts Butembo, endangering a third major urban centre.
Burundian forces pulled back from eastern DRC this week after helping defend Kavumu airport near Bukavu. The withdrawal weakens DRC’s struggling army.
Child Deaths Mar Rebel Advance in Region
UN human rights chief Volker Turk reported that M23 fighters killed three boys under 15 years old in Bukavu. The children wore uniforms and held weapons from an abandoned military camp.
The rebels run roughshod through the region with about 4,000 Rwandan troops backing them. M23 claims to guard Tutsi rights and stop discrimination.
Uganda Steps into Growing Regional Conflict
As bloodshed mounts, Uganda deployed forces to Bunia in eastern DRC on Tuesday. The Ugandan military spokesman Felix Kulayigye said the move seeks to halt militia attacks.
Yet UN experts have accused Uganda of undermining DRC by backing M23 and controlling mining interests. Uganda strongly rejects these claims.
Raw Materials Drive Fighting in Troubled Region
Congo observer Kambale Musavuli explained that the battle erupts from attempts to control DRC’s vast mineral wealth. The eastern region holds trillions in resources needed for global technology.
The fighting has pushed 350,000 people from their homes. Between 10,000 and 15,000 have fled to neighbouring Burundi in recent days.
Regional Powers Alter Military Tactics
South African forces endured heavy losses in the battle for Goma, with 14 peacekeepers killed during the fighting. The rising death toll reveals the cost of regional military involvement.
Ugandan armed forces head Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered rebel groups in Bunia to surrender their weapons. The ultimatum stoked fears of escalating military action in the area.
Peace Talks Stall Amid Rising Violence
Though both sides want talks, they clash over terms. DRC demands past peace deals as the framework, while M23 pushes for direct dialogue to tackle root causes.
The current warfare echoes the Second Congo War from 1998 to 2003. That bloodshed pulled in multiple African armies and killed millions through violence, disease, and hunger.
International Response Remains Limited
Unlike in 2012, when M23 left Goma within a week, the group now shows greater determination. Rwanda’s ongoing support with troops and weapons has emboldened the rebels.
A summit of eastern and southern African leaders demanded an immediate ceasefire. The meeting avoided ordering M23’s withdrawal from captured territories.
Ferry service has resumed between Goma and Bukavu, proving M23’s control of both cities. The rebels now count residents in Goma, suggesting plans for lasting rule.
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Read also:
No Peace on the Horizon Despite M23 Ceasefire in Eastern Congo
Congo Crisis Escalates as M23 Eye Up More Territory
Chaos in the Congo: The Fall of Goma
