The violence in the DRC is escalating due to the M23 rebels, backed by Rwanda, who captured Goma and are advancing towards Bukavu. This conflict, rooted in historical ethnic tensions, has resulted in significant casualties and displacement. The engagement of international troops and the control of resource-rich areas by M23 further complicates the situation, with ongoing human rights concerns and a lack of effective peace negotiations.
The recent surge in violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is predominantly fueled by Rwandan-backed M23 rebels who captured Goma, the largest city in eastern Congo, in late January. Their advance towards the second-largest city, Bukavu, signifies a significant escalation in a conflict rooted in historical power struggles and ethnic tensions originating from the 1990s Rwandan genocide and the subsequent collapse of the Mobutu Sese Seko dictatorship. Since 2012, the violence has reportedly resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and over a million displaced individuals.
In their quest to establish control, M23 has taken strategic locations, including Kavumu airport south of Goma, as they attempt to demonstrate their capability to govern. This has been accompanied by an increase in chaotic acts, including reports of looting and sexual violence near frontline areas where M23 confronts the Congolese army, bolstered by Burundian forces. The UN has highlighted the worsening situation, noting around 350,000 people are displaced and lack shelter.
The involvement of Rwandan and Burundian troops in the conflict raises fears of a broader regional conflict, echoing past wars between 1996 and 2003 that resulted in millions of casualties. South Africa has also bolstered its military presence in response to losses, including the death of 14 of its soldiers in January fighting M23. M23, which stands for the March 23, 2009 accord that ended a preceding Tutsi-led revolt, has accused the DRC government of failing to implement agreements related to Tutsi integration in military and governmental roles.
The group has gained control over rich mineral areas in eastern Congo, particularly the coltan-producing region of Rubaya, generating significant monthly revenues from mining taxes. These minerals are crucial for the global electronics industry, including components used in smartphones. Despite the wealth of resources, the DRC remains heavily reliant on international aid, which has been adversely affected by budget cuts from the U.S. government.
Accusations from the DRC, Western nations, and U.N. officials claim that Rwanda actively supports M23 by deploying troops and heavy weaponry in Congo. Rwandan officials reject these allegations, asserting they are merely taking defensive actions, while accusing Congo of collaborating with Hutu militias that threaten Tutsis. Rwanda’s military history in Congo dates back to interventions meant to target militia groups linked to the Rwandan genocide.
Efforts for peace negotiations have been undertaken by African leaders, but progress has been limited. A recent summit called for direct discussions involving M23, which the DRC government, led by President Felix Tshisekedi, has declined, labeling M23 a terrorist organization and refusing to negotiate. Tshisekedi’s intended presence at the upcoming African Union summit has been called off, with reports indicating his prime minister will represent the DRC instead.
U.N. peacekeepers continue to support Congolese military operations against the M23 amid rising tensions. The United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has adjusted its presence, with nearly 11,000 peacekeepers in the east, where the conflict has escalated significantly. Following Goma’s fall, many personnel have evacuated and sought refuge due to the heightened threat level. The Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) military mission remains active despite losses, while private military contractors have surrendered in the face of the advancing M23. Burundian troops continue contributing troops to support Congolese efforts against M23, solidifying their presence in conflict zones.
The violence in the DRC, driven by the M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, exemplifies a complex interplay of historical grievances, ethnic tensions, and the struggle for control over valuable resources. The humanitarian crisis is severe, with hundreds of thousands displaced. Regional stability remains at risk due to the involvement of neighboring countries and insurgent groups, while peace negotiations face considerable obstacles unless proactive measures are taken.
Original Source: globalnews.ca
