Ugandan troops have entered Bunia, Congo, to assist local forces against armed violence amidst ethnic conflicts. The joint efforts follow a meeting between Ugandan and Congolese military leaders. The situation raises concerns about escalating regional conflicts similar to those experienced in the 1990s, with various rebel groups and foreign military involvement complicating the landscape.
Ugandan troops have launched an operation in the eastern Congolese city of Bunia to support local forces in combating violence from armed groups. This joint deployment was confirmed by Ugandan military spokesman Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye following a meeting between Ugandan and Congolese troops. Bunia has been a hotspot for ethnic conflicts, particularly between the Lendu farmers and Hema pastoralists, leading to escalating violence in the region.
The Ugandan military’s move comes after commander Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba threatened to seize Bunia due to ongoing attacks against the Hema community. Bunia is strategically located about 40 kilometers from Uganda’s border, underscoring its significance in the regional security landscape. Since 2021, Ugandan forces have been active in eastern Congo under a government agreement, targeting various rebel factions, including the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) with Islamic State ties.
Despite Ugandan reinforcements, there are growing concerns about potential conflicts escalating in eastern Congo. Analysts worry that the increased military presence may signal a return to the regional conflicts of the 1990s, when Uganda and Rwanda intervened militarily in Congo’s internal affairs, leading to widespread consequences. Angelo Izama of the Fanaka Kwawote think tank remarked that this escalation could mirror past patterns of interest from Uganda and Rwanda in Congolese conflicts.
Presently, M23 rebels have seized significant territory, including the capitals of North and South Kivu provinces, Goma and Bukavu respectively, amidst minimal resistance from Congolese forces. The situation complicates as Congolese officials view M23 as a proxy for Rwanda, which reportedly has thousands of troops involved, exacerbating tensions in a region rich in minerals that have historically attracted external exploitation.
In the face of M23’s advances, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has sought assistance from allied nations to restore order and protect sovereignty. Troops from Burundi, Tanzania, and South Africa have been mobilized to support Congolese forces amid these turbulent developments. The regional dynamics remain fragile, reflecting deep-rooted geopolitical interests in the area.
The entry of Ugandan forces into Bunia signifies a critical development in the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. The joint operation aims to curb violence instigated by armed groups, particularly amid ethnic tensions. However, the broader implications of increased military presence could lead to wider regional conflict reminiscent of the 1990s. Uganda’s actions, alongside those of Rwanda, highlight the complexities and dangers of military engagements in resource-rich areas affected by historical strife.
Original Source: apnews.com
